Surya Paloh Reveals Prabowo's Stance on Iran and Palestine Conflict
NasDem chairman Surya Paloh said President Prabowo Subianto reaffirmed Indonesia’s free and active foreign policy amid the escalation of the conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel. The remarks were delivered after a meeting at Istana Merdeka on Tuesday night (3 March).
According to Surya, Prabowo outlined a number of strategic policies while updating the latest global developments, including the war against Iran by the US together with Israel. He explained the various policies already implemented by him as Head of State and updated the latest developments, the situation we understand together, especially the issues, with the most up-to-date development being the war against Iran by the US with Israel.
Regarding Indonesia’s stance, Surya said the government’s position is appropriate. He noted the President continues to uphold the non-aligned principle while showing empathy for the Palestinian struggle.
‘Yes, clearly, he reaffirmed how he maintains a free and active foreign policy, with a strong sense of sympathy and empathy for the Palestinian struggle,’ he said.
The meeting also touched on Indonesia’s position in the Board of Peace membership. Surya said Prabowo explained the strategic background behind the decision.
‘It was explained earlier and underpinned a range of strategic thoughts. Why and how Indonesia took up its position as a member of the BoP,’ he said.
When asked whether Indonesia would remain in the BoP after the Middle East escalation, Surya said there had been no change in stance to date.
‘To date we are still in that position, unless there is progress with several other countries later; we will evaluate what the meaning of Indonesia’s presence in the BoP is together with other countries,’ he added.
On the possibility of Indonesia becoming a mediator, Surya said the discussions have not yet reached that stage. However, he assessed that Prabowo’s views remain constructive in reading global challenges.
‘Not yet, but I think the president’s thoughts, frankly in my mind and in my view just now, remain within a fairly constructive corridor to build our shared awareness of the enormous challenges faced by this nation,’ Surya said.
He added that the President’s approach is not linear but combines tactical and strategic maneuvers to maintain diplomatic balance. ‘Demonstrating steps of prudence, not merely a linear contextual approach, but also taking several tactical and strategic maneuvers that we can understand together. In other words, how to ensure that the assertion of diplomatic relations remains with all parties,’ he concluded.
NasDem Chairman Surya Paloh rejected the suggestion that his meeting with Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin discussed the party’s chances of entering the Red-and-White Cabinet. In his NasDem National Working Conference speech, Paloh urged political parties to uphold the importance of opposition ethics and the responsibility that comes with power. He also stressed the importance of valuing the great blessing possessed by the Indonesian nation.