PBNU states that visits to three embassies aim to promote Middle East peace

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) Ulil Abshar Abdalla stated that PBNU’s visits to the Embassies of Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United States in recent weeks were aimed at promoting peace in the Middle East (Timteng). Ulil explained that, together with PBNU General Chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf, they visited the embassies to convey aspirations while also seeking official information regarding the conflict situation. “PBNU, as an institution, is conducting diplomacy of a soft nature, carried out by Gus Yahya along with PBNU colleagues,” Ulil said during a discussion and commemoration of the Lakpesdam PBNU anniversary in Jakarta on Tuesday. PBNU regrets the negative framing circulating on social media regarding these visits. One of the issues that has spread is the accusation that PBNU received a mandate from certain parties in conveying its stance on the conflict. Ulil emphasised that PBNU’s position is clear in desiring the conflict to be ended as soon as possible through diplomatic channels. According to him, war brings widespread impacts, not only to the Middle East region but also to global society, including Indonesia. He also appreciated the Indonesian Government’s steps in holding back oil price increases amid global pressures, even though it results in increased burden on state subsidies. On the other hand, Ulil assessed that the conflict in the region will not last long. He highlighted Iran’s readiness to face the possibility of a prolonged war, but on the other side, he views the United States and Israel as having limitations, particularly from domestic pressures. He also touched on the political dynamics in the United States, including the decline in Donald Trump’s popularity ratings ahead of the election. “I see this conflict will not last long. There will be efforts to end it quickly without losing face,” Ulil said.