PBNU Chairman Gus Yahya Expresses Condolences Over Ali Khamenei's Death, Prays for Iran's Strength and Resilience
The Chairman of the Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), Yahya Cholil Staquf, known as Gus Yahya, has strongly condemned attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran, which have intensified tensions and instability in the Middle East region.
“The attacks by the US and Israel on Iran constitute a brutal act that has again damaged the international order, potentially triggering uncontrollable global conflict whilst creating conditions for the resurgence of radicalism and extremism,” said Gus Yahya at a statement in Jakarta on Monday, 26 February 2026.
Gus Yahya also expressed profound condolences and sympathy over the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as a result of these attacks. He called upon all Muslims and the international community to pray for the Iranian nation, hoping it will remain steadfast and be granted the strength to overcome this crisis safely.
Nevertheless, Gus Yahya also lamented Iran’s attacks on various countries without acceptable justification, which has had the consequence of escalating the conflict further and complicating efforts at resolution.
“We all understand this was a response driven by anger and targeted at locations suspected to be US military positions, but regardless, such attacks will only worsen the situation,” he stated.
According to Gus Yahya, PBNU has called upon the international community to consolidate efforts to re-establish consensus on the international order with the United Nations as its structural manifestation, so that the UN can effectively carry out its function as guardian of international order.
“We also encourage the Indonesian Government to play an active role in efforts to de-escalate the conflict towards a peaceful and dignified resolution. This is the mandate of our constitution,” he said.
Gus Yahya expressed hope that the Indonesian Government would leverage its position within the Band of Partners to press the US, Israel, and other actors involved to halt the violence and pursue the path of peace.