Indonesian Jewish Leader: President's 'Free Palestine' Calls Aim for Domestic Support

Calls by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to "free Palestine" have surprised Israel, but the local Jewish community suggests the move is a political maneuver to deflect growing public criticism. Yaakov Baruch, leader of Indonesia's Jewish community, stated in an interview on Kan News' "Our Neighborhood" program on Thursday that the president's statements do not necessarily preclude future relations between the countries. This comes months after Subianto expressed a more moderate stance at the UN, emphasizing the need to ensure Israel's safety and security for true peace.

Baruch explained that the recent shift in rhetoric followed Subianto's visit to an Islamic educational institution, attended by Palestinian diplomatic representatives. "I was surprised and shocked. I met him before and know he has a positive attitude towards Israel," Baruch shared. He believes the president's remarks were intended to gain local support, particularly after disappointment arose when Indonesia joined the Peace Council. Baruch noted that the president's positive approach to Palestinian diplomats occurred as plans were being made to send thousands of Indonesian soldiers to Gaza as part of an international stabilization force.

The primary motivation for the president, according to Baruch, stems from domestic criticism regarding his performance, including allegations of corruption. "Many in Indonesia are disappointed with large parts of his policy," he explained. "When he delivered this message at that event, everyone forgot the criticism they had against him. Many supporters of Palestine in Indonesia are very pleased with what he did." Despite this, Baruch remains optimistic about potential normalization with Israel, even on a civilian level, suggesting it could occur with sufficient public relations efforts.

Baruch asserted that Israel needs Indonesia as an Asian partner for cooperation in business and interfaith dialogue, highlighting Indonesia's need for Israeli technology and development for its startup sector. He expressed hope that many Indonesians will recognize the potential for Israeli contributions to their country's development. Baruch concluded that there have never been conflicts between the two nations leading to hatred among Indonesian citizens, attributing any animosity solely to ongoing antisemitic campaigns on social media.