Read The Poems At The Palestinian Defense Action, Foreign Minister Retno: Me And My Indonesia Muntang Resign Will Continue To Help You

The video of Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi during a speech at the United Nations was played at a peaceful Palestinian defense in the Monas area, Jakarta. (Screenshot of YouTube Channel Kompas TV)

JAKARTA - The Minister of Foreign Affairs ensured that the Government of the Republic of Indonesia continues to support the struggle of the Palestinian people, expressing its sadness over the situation in the Gaza Strip, in Sunday's peaceful demonstration.

The Indonesian People's Alliance Defense Palestine held a peaceful demonstration which was attended by interfaith Ummats in the Monas area, Jakarta. This activity was attended by interfaith leaders, representatives of the DPD RI Sylviana Murni, Deputy Chairperson of the MPR RI Jazilul Fawaid, Chairman of the DPR RI Puan Maharani, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Effendy, to Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas.

In her speech, Foreign Minister Retno on behalf of the Indonesian government reiterated Indonesia's support for the struggle of the Palestinian people.

"We gathered here, united from Bhinneka to show our solidarity with humanity," said Foreign Minister Retno.

Foreign Minister Retno revealed that the first phase of assistance from Indonesia for Palestine had been dispatched and released directly by President Joko Widodo on Saturday.

"This is not only assistance from the government, but assistance from all Indonesian people who are channeled through humanitarian institutions. Thank you," he said.

"Further assistance will be prepared," said Foreign Minister Retno.

On this occasion, Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi also read a poem entitled "Palestinian My Brother".

"I wrote this transition last night, may I read it?" asked Foreign Minister Retno, who was greeted with an "allow" answer from the crowd present.

The following is a poem read by Foreign Minister Retno.

"Palestinian Brother"

"It's Sad, Because This Boy Is Crying

He's Injured, He Can't Say, He Doesn't Know Where His Mother's Father Is

Every 10 Minutes One Child Dies In Gaza

Thousands Of Parents Lose Their Children. Incomparable, How Many Thousands Of Children Lost Their Parents

Every Hand Is Written Name. They Don't Want To Die Without Signing

Their home is only Langit. Their mattress is only Earth

When Will This Cruelty Stop?

When Will This Justice Approach?

Me And My Indonesia Pantang Resign, Will Continue To Help You

Me And My Indonesia Will Continue To Be With You

Until The Colonials Are Restricted From The Economy

Palestine, You Are My Brother

And I, My Indonesia Will Always Be With You "

Foreign Minister Retno is known to be vocal in defending Palestine in international forums. Most recently, during a meeting at the United Nations Headquarters last month, Foreign Minister Retno reminded the world not to remain silent over the situation in Gaza, questioning the UN Security Council while warning against taking sides.

"I want to ask how DK will carry out its responsibilities? When will DK stop the war in Gaza, realize a ceasefire, open access to humanitarian aid, call for the release of civilians, and stop the illegal occupation by Israel?" Foreign Minister Retno said at the UN's High-Level Open Debate on the situation in the Middle East.

"Our foreign minister loudly defends Palestine on behalf of the Indonesian people. We are proud of a meeting who loudly speaks for Palestine," said DPD RI member Sylviana Murni in a peaceful Sunday.

Armed conflict broke out in Gaza, Palestine, after the militant group Hamas attacked Israel's southern region on 7 October. It was responded with a total blockade and Israeli bombardment against the Gaza Strip. As of Saturday, the death toll in Gaza had reached 9,488 people, the Ministry of Health said, as quoted by Anadolu.

That includes 3,900 children and 2,509 women. Meanwhile, 24,000 other people were injured. The ministry also reported 2,200 people missing under the rubble, including 1,250 children.