JAKARTA - Republika Editor-in-Chief Andi Muhyiddin strongly condemned the interception action taken by the Israeli military against the Global Sumud Flotilla humanitarian mission ship in international waters.
"This action is a serious violation of international law, universal humanitarian principles, and the civil liberties of the world's citizens who are bringing aid to the Palestinian people in Gaza," he said in an official statement, Monday, May 18.
Andi Muhyiddin emphasized that volunteers did not bring weapons, but solidarity, medicine, logistical assistance, and the conscience of the world for Palestinian civilians who have been facing blockades, hunger, and relentless aggression for months.
In the entourage there were nine volunteers from Indonesia, including two Republika journalists, Bambang Noroyono and Thoudy Badai who carried out journalistic and humanitarian duties.
"Their safety is of serious concern to us. We stand with the world's humanitarian volunteers. And we reject any form of criminalization of humanitarian missions in international waters," continued the editor of Republika.
Previously, Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the DPR, Sukamta, asked the government to help free Indonesian activists and journalists who were held hostage by Israel while on a humanitarian aid ship for the people of Gaza, Palestine.
"I condemn Israel's actions," said Sukamta, Monday, May 18.
According to him, the Indonesian government can urge the UN Security Council and also lobby the United States and Israel to free the Indonesian citizens who are reported to be hostages.
In the midst of efforts by various parties to quell the conflict, he assessed that Israel should respect the process by not carrying out maneuvers that are counterproductive to efforts to achieve peace in the Middle East.
"With the Board of Peace (BoP) initiated by President Trump, Israel's attitude should at least be in line with the BoP's efforts to achieve peace in Palestine," he said.
He emphasized that even in the event of conflict and war, journalistic activities and humanitarian missions are protected by the UN Charter.
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