Jakarta – The Indonesian government has reaffirmed its firm stance by refusing to issue visas to all Israeli athletes planning to participate in the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta from October 19–25. This decision was taken to maintain national stability and demonstrate Indonesia’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian struggle for independence.
Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, emphasized that this step was a direct directive from President Prabowo Subianto. “The Indonesian government will not grant visas to Israeli athletes intending to attend Jakarta. This government stance is in line with the President’s directives on various occasions,” he said.
Yusril also referred to President Prabowo’s statement at the United Nations (UN) forum, which strongly condemned Israeli atrocities against the Palestinian people. “The Indonesian government is firm that it will not have any contact with Israel until Israel recognizes the existence of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state. Only then can diplomatic relations be considered,” he stressed.
The government’s stance has received widespread support from national political circles. The chairman of the National Awakening Party (PKB), Daniel Johan, considered the decision a wise move that avoided potential public unrest. “We appreciate the government’s stance in denying visas to the Israeli delegation. This is an appropriate and firm response because the government is listening to the people’s aspirations. Indonesia currently needs peace, so anything that could cause unrest is important to avoid,” he said.
Daniel also emphasized that this rejection aligns with Indonesia’s commitment to upholding justice and humanity in Palestine. “The government’s stance is very clear: to defend the humanitarian crisis and reject injustice until peace is achieved and Israel recognizes an independent Palestinian state,” he added.
Similar support came from National Mandate Party (PAN) legislator Saleh Daulay, who considered the government’s move appropriate and a reflection of public sensitivity. “All national agendas should not be disrupted by the arrival of Israeli athletes. Rejecting them will not diminish Indonesia’s standing internationally. In fact, at some point, this stance will further strengthen Indonesia’s position and earn appreciation from other countries,” he said.
Saleh also emphasized that the government’s decision demonstrates Indonesia’s moral and foreign policy consistency. “Mr. Yusril’s stance is appropriate. The public will certainly support him because something that is right must be done,” he added.
Therefore, the government’s decision to deny visas to Israeli athletes is not merely an administrative decision, but rather a political statement that affirms Indonesia’s commitment to world peace and an effort to maintain a conducive domestic climate from the potential for unnecessary unrest.
