President Prabowo Subianto met with Islamic organization leaders on February 3, 2026, to explain Indonesia's membership in the Board of Peace. He promised to withdraw if the initiative fails to positively impact Palestine's independence. The meeting eased initial concerns from groups like MUI and PBNU.
On January 22, 2026, President Prabowo Subianto signed the Board of Peace charter in Davos, Switzerland, during the World Economic Forum. This initiative, proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, is backed by UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and aims to create conditions for Palestine's independence through Gaza recovery, Palestinian Authority reforms, and inter-party dialogues.
Indonesia's membership drew criticism, including from the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), which was skeptical due to ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza despite ceasefires. MUI Deputy Chairman Cholil Nafis expressed concerns over Netanyahu's refusal to recognize Palestine and warned against legitimizing occupation.
In a meeting at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on February 3, 2026, attended by about 16 Islamic organizations and pesantren leaders, Prabowo explained realistic considerations for meaningful contributions to Palestine, including consolidation with other Muslim-majority countries. "Pak Presiden said, if policies or steps are not aligned, we will abstain and be absent. And if it's truly not suitable... he is ready to exit the BOP," Cholil stated.
PBNU Chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf (Gus Yahya) urged against being swept into currents harming Palestine. Prabowo reaffirmed commitment to defending Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank with vigilance. Post-meeting, MUI Chairman Anwar Iskandar expressed conditional support: "As long as it's for the ummah's benefit... why not? There's a promise to exit if it's not beneficial."
The Board of Peace will temporarily oversee Gaza administration, fund reconstruction, and promote economic development for regional stability. Indonesia joined to strengthen bargaining power for a two-state solution.
