President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia has returned from the Gaza Peace Summit in Egypt, expressing optimism about recent developments towards securing peace in the longstanding conflict. His participation not only marked Indonesia’s significant diplomatic involvement but also underscored its firm stance in support of Palestinian statehood.
Key Developments at the Summit
- Prabowo was among over 20 leaders, making Indonesia the only Southeast Asian nation present.
- The summit culminated in a declaration signed by Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States, aimed at guaranteeing a ceasefire—an essential step towards ending two years of conflict.
- The agreement includes a hostage and prisoner exchange, following a ceasefire put in place the previous Friday.
Ongoing Commitment to Peace
Despite acknowledging the complexities ahead, Prabowo described the peace agreement as a “positive first step”. He reaffirmed Indonesia’s long-standing support for Palestinian independence, stating, “This is our national resolve. For decades, I have supported Palestine since I was young.” This remark illustrates Indonesia’s deep-rooted political and humanitarian engagement in regional issues.
Potential Peacekeeping Troops
In line with the commitment to regional stability, Prabowo previously offered to deploy at least 20,000 peacekeeping troops to Gaza. His administration is ready to assist as key mediators, including the US and Turkey, have signalled interest in Indonesia’s involvement.
Awkward Moments Caught on Mic
While at the summit, a private conversation with US President Donald Trump captured media attention. Prabowo was overheard asking about a potential meeting with Trump’s son, Eric. However, Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Sugiono maintained that such discussions likely touched on non-state matters.
International Recognition
Prabowo’s engagement in the peace summit reflects a growing recognition of Indonesia’s role on the international stage. His ability to connect with global leaders while advocating for the Palestinian people’s rights demonstrates his government’s diplomatic strength.
As global eyes remain on Gaza, the results of the summit could offer hope for a region plagued by conflict for decades. The promise of humanitarian support and potential stability hinges on the delicate negotiations that lie ahead.