Prabowo Has Not Yet Discussed Mediation of US-Iran Conflict with Parliament
Deputy Chair of the Parliamentary Commission I Dave Akbarshah Fikarno Laksono stated that President Prabowo Subianto has not yet formally communicated his intention to serve as a peacemaker between the United States and Iran. The Middle East conflict intensified following Israeli and American military strikes on Iran on 28 February 2026.
Indonesia has volunteered to serve as a facilitator for dialogue between conflicting parties. Moreover, if approved by both sides, the Indonesian President is prepared to travel to Tehran to conduct mediation.
“Regarding whether President Prabowo Subianto has communicated or sought input from Parliament concerning this plan, to date there has been no formal communication received by Commission I of the Indonesian Parliament,” Dave said when contacted on Sunday, 1 March 2026.
Nevertheless, Dave affirmed that parliament is prepared to provide support and strategic guidance if required. This is particularly important to ensure that diplomatic steps remain within the framework of national interests and in accordance with constitutional principles.
The Golkar party politician emphasised that there are several matters requiring attention should Prabowo proceed to Tehran in his role as mediator. According to Dave, Indonesia must maintain a balanced position to remain neutral and avoid appearing to favour either side.
Additionally, the security and safety of the President and his entourage must be a top priority. “Given that conditions in that region remain highly dynamic,” he said.
Furthermore, Dave stated that diplomatic steps should preferably be integrated with multilateral efforts, both through the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. In this manner, Indonesia would not act alone but would become part of a broader international consensus.
Prabowo’s idea of travelling to Tehran for mediation in the US-Iran conflict has drawn criticism. Former Deputy Foreign Minister Dino Patti Djalal believed the plan was unrealistic. First, according to Dino, the United States rarely accepts mediation from third parties when conducting military strikes. Dino regards the US as a superpower with its own ego.
Second, Dino said, there is currently no trust from the Iranian government towards the Indonesian government. This is because for more than a year there has been no closeness between the Iranian and Indonesian governments.
Third, Dino stated it is impossible that US President Donald Trump and US Foreign Secretary Marco Rubio—as the attacking parties against Iran—would be willing to visit Tehran.
Fourth, mediation efforts would require President Prabowo to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is the principal party launching attacks on Iran. Dino contended this would be impossible politically, diplomatically, or logistically. Dino stated a meeting between Prabowo and Netanyahu would constitute political suicide for President Prabowo.
Meanwhile, former Vice President Jusuf Kalla stated that Indonesia is not in an equal position with the US. According to him, the reciprocal trade agreement signed with the US on 19 February 2026 does not reflect equality and actually harms Indonesia.
“If we are not even equal with America in that regard, how can we mediate when we are in an unequal position in negotiations like this?” said Kalla at his private residence in South Jakarta on Sunday, 1 March 2026.