Indonesia has withdrawn temporarily from the discussions on the proposed peace initiative under President Donald Trump, citing the escalating military tensions in the Middle East.
Indonesia’s Foreign Minister, Sugiono, said it withdrew from the talks on the proposed Board of Peace owing to the latest military escalation in the region.
He said the war has significantly changed the foreign policy priorities of countries involved in the initiative.
Sugiono said global attention has now shifted to the consequences of the conflict involving Iran, adding that the deteriorating security situation requires immediate diplomatic engagement among countries directly affected.
He said Indonesia would begin intensive consultations with partners in the Gulf region, adding that the countries there are directly impacted by the ongoing attacks and rising tensions.
Indonesia’s involvement in the proposed council has meanwhile drawn sharp criticism from domestic political and religious groups, who argue that participation in an initiative associated with the Trump administration could undermine Jakarta’s long-standing support for the Palestinian cause.
In a related development, the Indonesian Ulema Council called on the government to withdraw completely from the initiative, saying the proposed body lacks credibility and effectiveness while military offensives continue in the region.
