Indonesia Must Be Ready for Any Scenario Amid Rising Middle East Tensions, Says President Prabowo
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has stressed that the country must remain prepared for any possible developments as tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Indonesia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono said the president issued the directive during a high-level discussion held at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday evening. The meeting brought together several former presidents, vice presidents, former foreign ministers, and political party leaders to exchange views on regional and global geopolitical developments.
“The President conveyed that whatever happens, we must be prepared for any eventuality,” Sugiono told reporters after the meeting.
Amid the intensifying conflict in the Middle East, Sugiono said he had instructed the Indonesian Ambassador in Tehran to take immediate steps to facilitate the evacuation of Indonesian citizens who wish to return home.
He noted that not all Indonesians currently residing in the affected areas have requested evacuation. However, since some citizens in Iran have expressed their willingness to leave, the government has begun arranging their repatriation in stages.
The foreign minister added that the Indonesian government will continue to closely monitor the rapidly evolving situation in the region.
On the diplomatic front, Sugiono revealed that he had spoken with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, during which he conveyed Indonesia’s regret over the failure of negotiations that led to the escalation of tensions.
He reiterated Indonesia’s stance on respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all countries and emphasized the importance of returning to dialogue and negotiations to reduce tensions.
Sugiono also conveyed President Prabowo’s willingness for Indonesia to play a mediating role in efforts aimed at de-escalating the conflict in the region.
The Tuesday meeting at the Merdeka Palace lasted approximately three and a half hours, beginning at 7:30 p.m. and concluding around 11:00 p.m.
Prominent figures who attended the discussion included former Indonesian presidents Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Joko Widodo, as well as former vice presidents Jusuf Kalla, Boediono, and Ma’ruf Amin.
