PBNU Leader Condemns US-Israeli Attacks on Iran

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Yahya Cholil Staquf, Chairman of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), has strongly condemned attacks by the United States and Israel against Iran, which have intensified and destabilised conditions in the Middle East region.

“The US and Israeli attacks on Iran constitute brutal actions that undermine the international order once again, and could potentially trigger an uncontrollable global conflict whilst providing justification for the resurgence of radicalism and extremism,” said Gus Yahya, the affectionate name for the PBNU Chairman, in Jakarta on Monday.

Gus Yahya also expressed profound condolences over the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as a result of these attacks.

Nevertheless, Gus Yahya also regretted Iran’s actions in attacking various countries without justifiable cause, which has had the consequence of escalating the conflict further and complicating efforts at resolution.

“We all understand that this was retaliation targeting alleged locations of American military forces, but regardless, such attacks will only worsen the situation,” he said.

“We also urge the Indonesian Government to take an active role in pursuing de-escalation of the conflict towards a peaceful and dignified resolution. This is a constitutional mandate for us,” he added.

Gus Yahya expressed hope that the Indonesian Government would leverage its presence and position within the Band of Friends to pressure the US, Israel, and other actors involved to cease violence and pursue the path of peace.