MUI Understands Prabowo's Steps: He Will Not Make Enemies of Any Country
JAKARTA — The Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Anwar Iskandar, said he understood the steps taken by President Prabowo Subianto in responding to the escalation of the war in the Middle East. He spoke directly after hearing Prabowo’s explanation at the Istana, Jakarta, on the evening of Thursday, 5 March 2026, regarding Indonesia’s position in facing international geopolitics.
‘I think we understand what our President is doing in pursuing an independent and active foreign policy,’ Anwar said, quoted from a broadcast on the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube channel.
According to Anwar, Indonesia is taking steps to embrace all countries.
Anwar said Prabowo’s speech was very extraordinary and that all segments of society — ulama, kiai, leaders of pesantren, and representatives of Islamic organisations — could understand it.
In his speech, Prabowo discussed various aspects, both the nation’s condition and the situation of the conflict in the Middle East.
‘What we can take away is that the war is taking place between neighbours Israel and Iran. But it is not impossible that it could eventually reach our country,’ he said.
Therefore, Anwar fully understands the steps the President is taking in implementing an independent and active foreign policy.
‘What is most important for us is how to safeguard our state, our nation, and our people and our ummah. That is the most crucial,’ he added.
He also prayed for the safety of all people and leaders in Indonesia.
‘Externally, it is very important to forge togetherness, to build synergy between us and the powers that exist in this country. Ulama and Umaro must be united. Ulama and the TNI must be united. Ulama and the Polri must be united. And Ulama with all religious communities in this country must be united,’ he said.
As is known, the conflict in the Middle East is intensifying after Israel, the United States (US), and Iran launched attacks on Iran on Saturday, 28 March 2026 local time.
The attacks occurred in the wake of nuclear talks held in Geneva, Switzerland between the US and Iran that have reached an impasse.