Prabowo Reaffirms Willingness to Withdraw from BoP Gaza If Palestinian Independence Is Not Realised

Jakarta — President Prabowo Subianto has reiterated Indonesia’s commitment to its membership of the Board of Peace (BoP) in Gaza, saying the country is prepared to withdraw from the body if it does not deliver tangible support for Palestine’s independence from Zionist Israel. The remarks were made during an audience with more than 160 ulama and kiai in a silaturahmi and dialogue held on the central courtyard of the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Thursday night (5 March).

Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), K.H. Cholil Nafis, who attended the gathering, explained that the main aim of Indonesia joining BoP is to support Palestine’s independence. He said, if that aim is not achieved, Indonesia will not hesitate to leave the forum. ‘In relation to BoP, the President is determined that the objective is Palestinian independence. If it is not for Palestinian independence, he is ready to step down.’ He added: ‘The President promised that if I am not useful in BoP, I will withdraw. He is committed to doing what is for Palestine’s independence.’

Cholil Nafis also stressed that there were no discussions linking BoP’s future to unilateral attacks on Iran, which was urged by the United States as the initiator of BoP in concert with Zionist Israel, a member of the body. ‘BoP is specific to Palestine.’

In a separate remark at the same venue, Nafis expressed the view that BoP is not very effective as a vehicle for advancing Palestinian independence. He suggested Indonesia should strengthen the roles of existing international organisations such as the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the United Nations (UN).

Previously, Prabowo had floated the option of withdrawing from BoP during a meeting with kiai and ulama at the Istana on 3 February 2026.

Additionally, the Front Pembela Islam (FPI) issued a letter to President Prabowo requesting Indonesia withdraw from BoP. Dedeh Rosidah, known as Mamah Dedeh, was invited to the silaturahmi and dialogue with the President.

President Prabowo also signalled willingness to engage in dialogue with various parties involved in Middle East conflicts, including Iran, as part of efforts to promote regional peace.