President Prabowo Subianto has announced that Indonesia is ready to receive thousands of injured and orphaned Palestinian children from Gaza, as the humanitarian crisis deepens due to continued Israeli military operations.
The statement came just before President Prabowo departed for a diplomatic tour of Turkey and several Middle Eastern countries. He addressed the media at Halim Perdana kusuma Air Force Base in East Jakarta on Tuesday morning.
“We are ready to evacuate those who are wounded, traumatized, and orphaned. If they wish to be brought to Indonesia, we will send our planes to get them,” said Prabowo.
Indonesia Prepares for Humanitarian Evacuation
President Prabowo has instructed Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi to coordinate directly with the Palestinian government. Their goal is to develop a safe and effective plan for evacuating victims from the war-torn Gaza Strip.
The Indonesian government estimates that around 1,000 individuals may be brought in during the first phase of the evacuation effort.
“This operation requires approval from all sides involved,” Prabowo emphasized. “Those brought here will stay temporarily—only until they recover. If conditions improve, they should return home.”
Humanitarian Commitment Remains Strong
Indonesia has long supported the Palestinian cause. During President Joko Widodo’s term, the country sent multiple aid packages and medical teams to Gaza. These teams worked under dangerous conditions to help those affected by the conflict.
Prabowo said the Indonesian people have consistently shown support and solidarity with Palestinians. He noted that Indonesia’s active, non-aligned stance makes it a trusted voice in international diplomacy.
“Although Indonesia is far from the Middle East, we are the world’s largest Muslim-majority country,” Prabowo said. “We remain neutral and active, and this is why we are being asked to help find peaceful solutions.”
A Regional Tour to Boost Peace Talks
President Prabowo’s current trip will include official visits to five countries: the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Egypt, Qatar, and Jordan. The tour runs from April 9 to April 15, 2025.
The main focus of this visit is to engage with leaders in the region on the Gaza conflict and broader Middle East issues. Prabowo said he will explore how Indonesia can help mediate and contribute to peacebuilding efforts.
“This is not easy. It’s a complex situation,” he said. “But Indonesia is committed to supporting peace, the safety of civilians, and the eventual independence of Palestine.”
Global Calls for Indonesia’s Active Role
Over the past months, there has been growing international support for Indonesia to take on a more active role in the Gaza peace process. Many nations see Indonesia’s neutral position as an asset in efforts to resolve the conflict.
Prabowo confirmed these requests and said Indonesia is prepared to step in as a mediator if all parties agree.
“We are ready to act in accordance with our abilities,” he said. “If we are asked to mediate or help in any way, Indonesia will respond.”
A History of Supporting Palestine
Indonesia has consistently backed Palestinian independence through peaceful diplomacy and humanitarian aid. In previous years, it sent food, medicine, and emergency supplies to Gaza. Medical workers from Indonesia have also treated injured civilians and children in conflict zones.
This new initiative to temporarily host wounded and orphaned victims further highlights Indonesia’s commitment to humanitarian values and global solidarity.
What Happens Next?
If all goes according to plan, the first batch of Gaza evacuees could arrive in Indonesia within weeks. The government is working to ensure safe passage, medical treatment, trauma counseling, and temporary housing for the victims.
In the meantime, discussions with Middle Eastern leaders during Prabowo’s trip will help shape the final evacuation process and Indonesia’s potential diplomatic role in the crisis.
