New York (ANTARA) - Foreign Minister Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia's stance on Palestine on Friday, following remarks by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who cited Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s speech at the 80th UN General Assembly.
Speaking to reporters at UN Headquarters in New York, Sugiono declined to comment on Netanyahu’s response, saying, “That’s his position, don’t ask me.”
He stressed that any future vision regarding Israel must begin with the recognition of Palestinian independence and sovereignty.
“We won’t discuss anything else before that. Recognition must come first, and that’s what we will pursue,” he said.
Netanyahu, speaking earlier in the day during the final session of the General Debate, said he took note of Prabowo’s "spirited" words.
“Indonesia is the most populous Muslim-majority country. This is a sign of what the future could hold,” he said.
Netanyahu claimed that forward-thinking Arab and Muslim leaders understand that cooperation with Israel provides access to advanced technologies in medicine, science, agriculture, water, defense, and artificial intelligence.
“In the coming years, the Middle East will look very different. Those fighting Israel today will disappear. Brave peacemakers will take their place,” he said.
He also rejected accusations that Israel is deliberately starving civilians in Gaza, stating that Israel delivers over two million tons of food daily - allegedly equivalent to one ton of eggs per person and nearly 3,000 calories per day.
“If people in Gaza are going hungry, it’s because Hamas is stealing the aid,” he said.
Contrary to his claims, Gaza’s Health Ministry reported that 404 people, including 141 children, have died from hunger-related causes since March.
In August alone, 185 people died, the highest monthly toll since the blockade tightened.
Local authorities estimate over 43,000 toddlers and 55,000 pregnant or breastfeeding women are suffering from malnutrition.
Indonesia’s commitment to the Palestinian cause dates back to founding President Soekarno, who declared in 1962.
“As long as the freedom of Palestine has yet to be returned to the Palestinians, it will forever be Indonesia’s duty to oppose Israel’s occupation.”
This stance continues to shape Jakarta’s foreign policy, underscoring its long-standing support for Palestinian independence.
Amid reports of Israel’s plan to take full control of the Gaza Strip, Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry condemned the move as a serious violation of international law and the UN Charter, warning that it could worsen Gaza’s humanitarian crisis and undermine Middle East peace efforts.
