The Deputy Chair of the PKS Faction, Sukamta, condemned Israel’s recent approval for new settlements in the occupied West Bank, asserting that this occurs due to a lack of international sanctions. He criticized the disparity in responses to global conflicts, particularly in contrast with the situation in Ukraine, and called for Indonesia to take action in advocating for Palestine and strengthening its geopolitical position.
The Deputy Chair of the PKS Faction, Sukamta, recently expressed grave concerns regarding Israel’s ongoing expansion in the West Bank, emphasizing the urgent need for international accountability. During a press conference in Jakarta on May 14, Sukamta highlighted Israel’s approval for the construction of 4,427 new homes in the occupied territories, underscoring this action as part of a broader trend of annexation that goes unpunished due to the absence of effective sanctions by the United Nations and other countries. Sukamta remarked, “Israel’s crimes against Palestine continue as a result of the absence of strict sanctions from the United Nations and the international community. The difference in attitudes is clearly visible from the international sanctions against Russia.” He pointed out the striking contrast between the military and geopolitical responses to the conflicts in Ukraine and Palestine, arguing that the ongoing Israeli occupation, which has lasted for decades and resulted in numerous Palestinian casualties, receives far less international condemnation. Furthermore, Sukamta criticized the international community for its perceived double standards, stating that the focus is often placed on economic and political interests rather than humanitarian concerns. He advised the Indonesian government to take decisive actions regarding the Palestinian issue and to enhance its geopolitical stance globally. He proposed that Indonesia should engage in both short-term diplomatic efforts to exert pressure on Israel and to advocate for the deployment of UN peacekeepers in Palestine. In addition, he stressed the necessity for Indonesia to bolster its economic and defense capabilities to gain respect on the world stage. This context becomes even more pertinent given recent escalations, such as the reported attacks on Palestinian worshippers at the Al Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan and the tragic killing of Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh by Israeli forces. Sukamta concludes by affirming Indonesia’s historical stance against colonialism and the need for a more active role in addressing these critical international issues.
The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has seen escalating tensions, particularly with Israel’s continued expansion into the West Bank which is viewed as a violation of international law. The lack of decisive sanctions against Israel by global powers and international organizations, particularly the United Nations, contrasts starkly with the swift sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. This disparity has raised questions regarding the commitment of the international community to human rights and humanitarian principles, especially in long-standing conflicts. Indonesia, as a nation that has historically opposed colonialism, finds itself at a crossroads where its leadership role in global affairs is questioned, particularly concerning the Palestinian plight.
In summary, the recent remarks by Sukamta illustrate a growing frustration regarding the inaction of the international community, particularly in dealing with Israeli expansionism in the West Bank. He advocates for a more proactive Indonesian foreign policy aimed at addressing these injustices, calling for immediate diplomatic efforts and long-term national strengthening. The ongoing conflicts highlight the need for a consistent and unified global stance on human rights, particularly in scenarios that involve colonial legacies and occupations.
Original Source: fraksi.pks.id
