Prabowo Opens Door to Diplomatic Relations with Israel, Palestinian Independence Is Key

President Prabowo Subianto recently made a major diplomatic breakthrough for Indonesia. In a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on May 28, 2025, Prabowo declared that Indonesia is ready to establish diplomatic relations with Israel, provided that the country officially recognizes Palestinian independence. This bold statement instantly became national and international headlines, marking a new chapter in Indonesia’s foreign policy, particularly regarding the long-standing issue of Palestine, which has been a major concern for the Indonesian people.

Prabowo: Palestinian Recognition Is a Non-Negotiable Condition

During the press event with Emmanuel Macron, Prabowo emphasized Indonesia’s consistent support for the two-state solution as the path to ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. According to Prabowo, diplomatic ties with Israel are not taboo as long as Israel meets the main precondition: full recognition of Palestinian independence. Prabowo stated, “We support Israel’s right as a sovereign nation, but this must go hand in hand with the recognition and sovereignty of the State of Palestine.”

Public and Religious Leaders’ Responses

Prabowo’s move has triggered diverse reactions. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) said the statement is understandable, as long as the ultimate goal is truly to realize Palestinian independence and sovereignty. MUI added that Indonesia must not compromise its anti-colonial principles in its foreign relations. Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), through Ahmad Fahrur Rozi, supports Prabowo’s diplomatic approach as long as the recognition of Palestine is genuinely realized, not just political rhetoric. Muhammadiyah, however, remains firm, stating it will not accept normalization with Israel as long as occupation continues.

Diplomatic Implications and International Reactions

Prabowo’s statement came during the French state visit. Both France and Indonesia reaffirmed their commitment to the two-state solution for peace. Macron underscored the importance of the upcoming Gaza peace conference in New York, and Indonesia is expected to play a more active role on the international stage.

Prabowo’s remarks also follow heightened tensions after Israel’s attack on the Indonesian hospital in Gaza in 2023, highlighting Indonesia’s significant role as the world’s largest Muslim-majority country. Although Indonesia and Israel have no official diplomatic ties, informal communication exists for humanitarian, trade, and security interests.

Historical Context and Signs of Change

Since independence, Indonesia has consistently supported Palestine and opposed colonialism. However, globalization, geopolitics, and economic pressures have prompted many countries to reconsider their relationships with Israel. Prabowo himself stressed that Indonesia’s position will not change unless the condition of recognizing Palestinian independence is truly met. This signal of change presents both opportunities and challenges for Indonesia’s diplomacy moving forward.

Bold Diplomacy in a New Era

President Prabowo’s statement marks a new era in Indonesian diplomacy. This move demands courage and caution, given its impact on both domestic and international politics. Support for Palestine remains paramount, but the possibility of opening diplomatic relations with Israel could become Indonesia’s strategic card in global forums.

Indonesia now stands at a historical crossroads—between the consistency of its anti-colonial principles and the need to respond to geopolitical realities. Only time will tell where this policy direction will lead.