Prabowo Re-examines RI Mandate in the Board of Peace of the US-Israel Postwar

JAKARTA - President Prabowo Subianto discussed Indonesia's fate and mandate as a member of the Gaza Peace Council (Board of Peace/BoP) after the unilateral attack by the United States and Israel on Iran in a meeting with a number of national figures at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Tuesday, March 3.

The meeting, which lasted about 3.5 hours, specifically highlighted the possible impact of the escalation of the conflict on the position and effectiveness of the BoP amid the heating up of the Middle East situation.

"(BoP) we discuss, but also in the context of recent developments, whether with the war raging in Iran this will weaken, possibly weaken the position and mandate of BoP. We will count again from that side," said Hassan Wirajuda after a meeting at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta.

Hassan, who served as Foreign Minister from 2001 to 2009, was also present with a number of former foreign ministers in a national discussion held by the President. In the forum, President Prabowo explained the escalation in the Gulf region and its potential implications for Indonesia's diplomatic position.

In addition to discussing the BoP, the discussion also touched on global challenges amid the weakening role of the United Nations (UN) and the difficulty of enforcing the international rule-based order, especially when violations are committed by major countries.

"The President described how we have to navigate our lives, not just two reefs, but now several reefs and it's not easy. Because it discussed the implications for world security and peace, but also the potential effects of war on the world economy, especially with regard to oil and gas supplies," explained Hassan.

The meeting was also attended by the 6th President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, the 7th President Joko Widodo, the 10th and 12th Vice President Jusuf Kalla, the 11th Vice President Boediono, and the 13th Vice President Ma'ruf Amin. Also present were the chairmen of political parties, representatives of the business world, members of the Red and White Cabinet, and leaders of state institutions.

Hassan assessed that the dialogue was fluid and two-way, with President Prabowo open to various inputs.

"The president is very open in responding to the suggestions of the participants," said Hassan.