Prabowo Signals Potential Shift in Indonesian Foreign Policy with Israel Stance
UNITED NATIONS - Indonesian presidential candidate prabowo Subianto’s recent declaration at teh United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) suggesting a willingness to recognize Israel under specific conditions has sparked debate among foreign policy analysts, signaling a potential recalibration of Indonesia‘s long-held position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The statement, made as global attention focuses on the escalating crisis in Gaza and renewed efforts toward a two-state solution, represents a notable departure from customary Indonesian diplomacy.
Indonesia, representing the world’s largest Muslim population, has historically been a staunch supporter of Palestinian statehood. Prabowo’s offer to instantly recognize Israel and support “all guarantees” for its security contingent upon the acceptance of Palestinian statehood has raised questions about Jakarta’s foreign policy priorities and whether it is attempting to balance regional diplomacy with its historical commitment to Palestine. Experts warn that a perceived shift could impact Indonesia’s standing both domestically and internationally.
The international discourse has been dominated by the ongoing Israeli siege and bombardment of Gaza, nearing its second anniversary on October 7th. September’s UNGA session largely centered on advancing Palestinian statehood and achieving a two-state solution, with observers noting evolving positions from several Western nations. Alongside these developments, United States-led talks with Arab and Muslim leaders resulted in an endorsement of Washington’s 20-point peace plan.
Prabowo’s remarks at the UNGA emphasized that lasting peace in the region necessitates assurances for israel’s safety, stating Indonesia’s readiness to recognize Israel immediately upon the acceptance of Palestinian statehood. This position has prompted calls for Indonesia to transparently prioritize Palestinian interests to avoid fueling perceptions of a diplomatic shift. Experts suggest Jakarta must clearly affirm its backing for Palestine alongside any efforts to engage with Israel.
