Jakarta: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced that Indonesia could establish formal diplomatic relations with Israel if Israel recognizes the state of Palestine. This statement was made during a joint news conference with French President Emmanuel Macron, who was on a three-day visit to Indonesia.
According to Anadolu Agency, Prabowo emphasized that once Palestine gains recognition from Israel, Indonesia would be prepared to open diplomatic relations with Tel Aviv. Indonesia, as the largest Muslim-majority country, is part of a group of nations, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Malaysia, that do not maintain official diplomatic ties with Israel.
Prabowo also highlighted Jakarta's willingness to send peacekeeping troops to the region in response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. Macron noted that an upcoming conference in New York, organized by France and Saudi Arabia, is expected to provide new momentum for the recognition of both a Palestinian state and Israel, promoting mutual recognition and lasting peace.
Prabowo further stated the necessity of recognizing and guaranteeing Israel's sovereignty and security. The conflict in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 54,000 Palestinians, largely women and children, according to local health authorities. This violence has persisted despite international demands for a ceasefire.
In an escalating legal response, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, charging them with war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Moreover, Israel is currently facing genocide proceedings at the International Court of Justice.
Although formal diplomatic relations between Jakarta and Tel Aviv are absent, indirect trade continues to thrive. As reported by Jakarta Globe News, bilateral trade between the two nations increased from $187.7 million in 2023 to $237.2 million in 2024, with Indonesia achieving a $128.7 million trade surplus.