Portrait of Joko Widodo
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Joko Widodo on Palestine

Strong two-state advocate (strong)

TL;DR

Joko Widodo strongly supports the Palestinian people’s inalienable rights and the realization of an independent state based on the two-state solution.

Key Points

  • He condemned the Israeli attack on Rafah in June 2024, reiterating that Israel must comply with international court decisions.

  • In November 2023, he urged the US President to do more to stop the Gaza conflict, insisting a ceasefire was “a must for the sake of humanity.”

  • In 2018, while Indonesia prepared for its UNSC non-permanent membership (2019-2020), he asserted the Palestinian issue would be a top priority.

Summary

Joko Widodo has consistently maintained a strong pro-Palestinian stance, rooted in Indonesia’s foundational anti-colonial foreign policy principles, which he reaffirmed during his presidency. His core position advocates for an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories and strongly supports the realization of an independent State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with international parameters and United Nations resolutions. He has frequently used international forums, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and bilateral meetings, to urge global action for a just and comprehensive resolution, and to denounce violence against Palestinian civilians.

During periods of heightened conflict, his administration took firm diplomatic and humanitarian steps, such as condemning attacks and deploying a hospital ship with aid to Gaza. He pressed international counterparts, including the US President, to secure a ceasefire for humanitarian reasons. Furthermore, the government has actively supported the Palestinian people through technical cooperation and has increased humanitarian assistance following major escalations in violence.

Key Quotes

the root of the conflict, namely Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories, must come to an immediate end, in accordance with the parameters already agreed to by the UN.

“A ceasefire is a must for the sake of humanity.”

“The OIC must stand united and be at the forefront in optimizing all avenues of peaceful settlement, exerting every influence, and making all diplomatic efforts in the defense of justice and humanitarian causes for Palestine,”

Frequently Asked Questions

Joko Widodo's position is strongly in favor of Palestinian statehood and rights, emphasizing the two-state solution as the only path to peace. He has consistently called for an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.

The general stance of strong support for Palestinian statehood has remained consistent throughout his tenure, aligning with historical Indonesian foreign policy. However, his administration's public actions and diplomatic engagement intensified significantly following the events of October 2023.

The former president urged international bodies like the OIC to unite in seeking a peaceful settlement and demanded accountability for atrocities in Gaza. He specifically pressed for an immediate ceasefire for humanitarian reasons.