Key Points from Prabowo's Statement on Iran-Israel-US Conflict

President Prabowo Subianto has issued several statements addressing the escalation of warfare in the Middle East following attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran.

Indonesia Remains Non-Aligned

Prabowo stated that Indonesia has remained on the correct path in responding to the escalating war in the Middle East region. He affirmed Indonesia’s consistent commitment to the principle of independent and active foreign policy. Prabowo declared that Indonesia will not join any bloc, stating that Indonesia respects all nations and global powers. “Our nation is on the correct path, we remain non-aligned, we always follow the path of independent and active foreign policy, non-bloc,” Prabowo said at the inauguration ceremony of 218 bridges on Monday, 9 March.

Potential Impact on Indonesia

Prabowo acknowledged that despite Indonesia’s geographical distance from the Middle East conflict, the impacts could still be felt domestically. He stated that events in one region will influence developments in other regions. He recognised that amid this uncertain global climate, fuel prices could potentially increase, with knock-on effects on food prices. However, Prabowo noted that Indonesia has already achieved rice self-sufficiency. “We will also soon reach the capability to meet our protein needs. Whatever happens elsewhere and nations experience difficulties, at minimum we will be secure on food matters,” he said.

Energy Self-Sufficiency Target

With global oil prices surging due to the warfare, Prabowo set a target for Indonesian energy self-sufficiency. He stated that Indonesia must be capable of meeting its fuel requirements without depending on imports from abroad. “We must eventually be able to meet our fuel needs not from foreign imports, but rather from our own crops, from palm oil, from cassava, from corn, and from sugarcane,” he said.

Preparing for Difficulties

Prabowo also addressed the potential difficulties resulting from the war. He noted that the war’s impact would not be limited to Indonesia but would affect the entire world. Prabowo characterised the current situation as filled with uncertainty and dangerous dynamics. “All brothers and sisters, the entire world is experiencing shocks, the entire world. Due to the war in the Middle East, frankly, we must be prepared to face difficulties,” he said.

Planned National Briefing

Finally, Prabowo announced plans to deliver a comprehensive briefing intended for all Indonesians in the near future. He did not elaborate on the specifics of the briefing, but this announcement comes amid the recent intensification of Middle East conflict. “However, I must also be honest with all the people and I will deliver a briefing to all Indonesians in the near future,” Prabowo said.