Top 3: US-Iran Conflict and Prabowo's Mediation Mission to Tehran
A number of stories on Tempo’s National channel became the most popular news on 28 February 2026, ranging from international political issues regarding the United States and Iran on the brink of war to Prabowo’s planned mediation mission to Tehran.
Former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono delivered an open message to Donald Trump and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as well as world leaders as the United States and Iran approached military conflict. The message was conveyed before the United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran.
SBY stated that the message was intended for all political leaders worldwide who possess the authority to initiate warfare. He emphasised that soldiers and military officers possess common sense, conviction, and hope, and are prepared to sacrifice their lives when necessary. However, SBY cautioned that warfare is ultimately determined by what resides in the hearts and minds of soldiers, citing the phrase: “Soldiers will not fight and die, unless they know what they fight and die for.”
President Prabowo Subianto stands ready to travel to Tehran to serve as a peacemaker between Iran and the United States. The Foreign Ministry announced this readiness hours after Israel and the United States resumed military strikes on Iran’s capital. In a written statement, the Foreign Ministry offered Indonesia’s services as a facilitator for dialogue amongst conflicting parties, stating that should both sides agree, the Indonesian President is prepared to depart for Tehran to conduct mediation efforts. Indonesia expressed regret over the failed negotiations between the United States and Iran that led to the resumption of armed conflict, and called upon all parties involved to exercise restraint and prioritise dialogue and diplomacy.
Human rights expert Herlambang P. Wiratraman testified during proceedings against Culture Minister Fadli Zon’s denial of mass rape allegations during the 1998 tragedy. Wiratraman, presented as an expert witness by the Coalition of Civil Society Against Impunity, testified before the State Administrative Court (PTUN) in Jakarta on 26 February 2026. He argued that Zon’s statement denying the occurrence of mass rape constitutes more than a simple statement or decision, but rather represents a series of political policy processes by those wielding state authority, and therefore constitutes a human rights violation.