Thousands Rally in Indonesia for Gaza Solidarity
On October 6, 2024, thousands of Indonesians took to the streets in various cities to mark the first anniversary of Operation Flood of Al-Aqsa and to express solidarity with the people of Gaza. The protests highlighted the ongoing Israeli military actions that have resulted in significant loss of life and displacement in the region, with over 41,000 reported dead and nearly 100,000 injured since the conflict began.
In Jakarta, demonstrators gathered outside the US embassy, organized by the Indonesian People's Alliance to Support Palestine. They voiced their opposition to US financial and military support for Israel, which they claim exacerbates the violence in the region. Protesters also called for increased support for the Palestinian and Lebanese people, particularly in light of the recent surge in violence in Lebanon that has displaced over a million residents.
Indonesian Government's Stance on the Conflict
The Indonesian Foreign Ministry condemned Israel's actions, particularly the attacks on southern Beirut, labeling them as violations of sovereignty and a potential catalyst for broader regional conflict. The ministry reiterated that the Israeli occupation of Palestine and its associated violence must cease to pave the way for lasting peace in the Middle East. Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi emphasized the importance of the Palestinian issue in Indonesia's diplomatic agenda, advocating for greater international recognition of the State of Palestine.
Continued Humanitarian Support for Palestine
Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts for Palestinians through increased contributions to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The Indonesian government has called on the international community to invest in humanitarian initiatives and work towards peace in the region, stressing that ending the Israeli occupation is crucial for achieving stability and security in the Middle East.
