Parliament: Initiative to Mediate US-Israel vs Iran Conflict Is Not Taking Sides

Parliament’s Commission I has assessed Indonesia’s offer to serve as a negotiator in the Middle East conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran as a concrete implementation of independent and active foreign policy. According to the parliament, this stance does not represent taking sides but rather constitutes a contribution to maintaining global stability.

Deputy Chair of Commission I Dave Laksono stated that Indonesia’s approach reflects the fundamental principle of national diplomacy that does not favour any particular power, whilst remaining actively engaged in promoting peace.

“Commission I of the Indonesian Parliament views Indonesia’s offer to serve as a negotiator as a genuine reflection of the principle of independent and active foreign policy. This principle asserts that Indonesia does not take sides with any power, yet consistently plays an active role in promoting peace and international justice,” he said when contacted on Tuesday, 3 March.

According to Laksono, the relevance of this initiative is based on Indonesia’s diplomatic reputation, which has consistently prioritised dialogue and peaceful solutions. Although global dynamics demonstrate obstacles in the negotiation process, this is not considered to close the door on Indonesia taking a role.

“Indonesia’s presence can serve as a symbol of independence and goodwill, expected to be able to open alternative communication channels and reduce tension,” he said.

He added that the success of the mediator role depends heavily on the willingness of all parties to prioritise peace over short-term political agendas. Indonesia, he stated, possesses diplomatic capital in the form of international trust, a track record in peace missions, and moral standing as a country consistent in its non-aligned principles.

However, Commission I reminded that every diplomatic step should be carried out carefully and consistently. Transparency to the public is also considered important to prevent misperceptions about the direction of foreign policy.

“Indonesia needs to affirm that this initiative is not a form of taking sides, but a genuine contribution to maintaining global stability,” said Laksono.