US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran in late February 2026, killing Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have sparked reactions in Indonesia. Analysts see this as a test for the government's firm stance in representing the Global South. Various parties urge evaluation of Indonesia's membership in the Board of Peace (BoP).
In late February 2026, the United States (US) and Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian territory, resulting in the death of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The attack occurred amid negotiations, according to University of Indonesia (UI) Middle East expert Prof Yon Machmudi. He stated that protests from civil society, including Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah, are justified due to the injustice by Western powers.
Prof Yon Machmudi emphasized that global statements have not strongly condemned the US and Israel, prompting Islamic organizations like NU and Muhammadiyah to speak out. "Statements from countries around the world seem not harsh in condemning America and Israel. Thus, Muslim communities like NU and Muhammadiyah feel called to voice this," he told Republika.
Meanwhile, UI international relations expert Broto Wardoyo offered advice if Indonesia remains in the Board of Peace (BoP), an organization formed by US President Donald Trump. He suggested ensuring Gaza Strip reconstruction benefits locals and clarifying rules of engagement for the International Stabilization Force (ISF). Indonesia has stated four national caveats: non-combatant role, no disarming of Hamas, no direct confrontation, limited to Gaza, and approved by the Palestinian Authority.
Golkar Deputy Chairman Idrus Marham urged the government to take a firm stance to affirm the free-active principle. "A firm statement disagreeing with the attack is important as reinforcement of our foreign policy principles," he said. He rejected impulsive withdrawal from BoP, emphasizing Indonesia's role as the largest Muslim nation and G20 member.
Former Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda stated President Prabowo Subianto will evaluate Indonesia's BoP membership following a meeting on March 3, 2026. "The decision is not yet made. He will certainly evaluate and make the right decision in due time," he said. The evaluation considers funding commitments and troop deployment, with exit as an option if not aligned with the 1945 Constitution.
The Global South, encompassing developing nations in Asia and Africa, is hoped to be more strongly represented by Indonesia against interventions like this, according to Prof Yon Machmudi.
