Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi confirmed on June 3, 2024, that Indonesia will maintain its commitment to supporting Palestine despite ongoing pressure to establish diplomatic relations with Israel. Speaking at Gadjah Mada University in Yogyakarta, Marsudi emphasized Indonesia’s longstanding stance on the issue, dating back to 1988 when it became one of the first nations to recognize Palestinian statehood. She denounced Israel’s strategic efforts aimed at undermining Palestine and addressed recent speculation regarding potential normalized ties between Indonesia and Israel.
Marsudi dismissed earlier Israeli media reports suggesting that Jakarta intended to initiate diplomatic engagement with Tel Aviv as part of an agreement to expedite Indonesia’s admission into the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The Indonesian foreign ministry previously refuted these allegations. As a strong advocate for Palestine, Indonesia remains dedicated to promoting international recognition of Palestinian statehood and advocating for an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders.
Among the primary challenges faced by Palestinians are the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over 36,400 Palestinians have lost their lives, and the destruction of essential civilian and medical facilities due to Israel’s relentless military campaign. Additionally, the blockade imposed by the Israeli military has severely restricted access to vital resources, jeopardizing the survival of Gaza’s more than 2 million residents.
Despite global pressures, Marsudi vowed to continue championing the cause of Palestine on various international platforms. This includes pressing for an immediate and durable ceasefire, calling on Israel to adhere to the International Court of Justice ruling demanding an end to its military operations in Rafah, and alleviating the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
Marsudi acknowledged the difficulties associated with preserving consistency in upholding pro-Palestinian principles within today’s complex political landscape, marked by numerous distractions and transactional incentives. Nevertheless, she affirmed that Indonesia has managed to stay true to its founding principles and maintain unwavering solidarity with Palestine.