Indonesia seeks to resolve violence in Palestine through diplomatic channels while ensuring the safety of its citizens in the region, especially those in Gaza. The Foreign Affairs Minister has discussed the situation with other nations, notably Brazil, and evaluated evacuation strategies through neighboring countries.
Indonesia is actively working to halt the ongoing violence in Palestine, as articulated by Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi. According to the spokesperson for the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, Minister Marsudi has engaged in extensive discussions with several countries and international organizations to address this critical issue. Notably, a meeting was held with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira in Jakarta, with Brazil currently presiding over the United Nations Security Council, allowing for effective dialogue on the matter. The Indonesian government is also cognizant of the welfare of its citizens residing in Palestine. Plans for evacuation are being formulated, considering various scenarios that include the potential withdrawal of Indonesian citizens through neighboring countries such as Jordan, Lebanon, and Egypt. Mr. Iqbal highlighted the proactive measures being taken: “Currently, the Indonesian government, through the Indonesian Embassies in Amman, Beirut, and Cairo, are coordinating with various parties to evacuate Indonesian citizens, who are in the Palestinian territory, especially 10 Indonesian citizens, who are in the Gaza Strip.” It has been reported that there are 45 Indonesian nationals in Palestine, with 10 particularly located in the conflict-afflicted Gaza Strip, which has been at the epicenter of military airstrikes conducted by Israeli forces. The intensity of the conflict has escalated rapidly; on October 8, Israeli military authorities claimed responsibility for striking 426 locations associated with Hamas, resulting in significant civilian casualties. The Palestinian Ministry of Health has stated that nearly 400 individuals, including children, perished amid these attacks, with thousands more injured. Furthermore, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) reported an alarming increase in displacement, with approximately 74,000 individuals taking refuge in 64 UNRWA shelters, a figure expected to rise as the conflict continues unabated.
The situation in Palestine has remained volatile, particularly with the recent hostilities that have seen the Israeli military conducting extensive airstrikes within Gaza, resulting in substantial destruction and loss of civilian life. Indonesia’s engagement in this matter arises from not only humanitarian concerns but also from its role as a member of the international community advocating for peace and stability in conflict zones. The Indonesian government has been particularly vigilant regarding its citizens abroad, especially in conflict areas, thus leading to the establishment of contingency evacuation plans.
In summary, Indonesia is demonstrating a commitment to alleviating the violence in Palestine through diplomatic efforts and by safeguarding its citizens in the region. The government is coordinating with international partners and evaluating various evacuation methods, reflecting Indonesia’s proactive stance on humanitarian concerns amid ongoing conflict.
Original Source: en.antaranews.com