Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has issued a strong call for global action regarding the Palestinian territories, describing the situation as a definitive test of the world's conscience. During his national address at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Sugiono demanded that national sovereignty be respected and that colonialism across occupied Palestinian lands be brought to an end.
Highlighting the severity of the crisis, Sugiono noted that the clear violations of international law occurring in Gaza and the West Bank evoke the period prior to 1945. He pointed out that these actions predate the establishment of the UN Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the Geneva Conventions. Drawing on his own nation's history, the minister remarked that Indonesia understands the struggle against colonialism and the challenges of a world where might was often considered right, noting that this experience fuels his country's commitment to the Palestinian cause.
Indonesia remains steadfast in its support for the Palestinian people, advocating for their right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent, sovereign state based on the two-state solution under international law. Sugiono stressed that the issue is not limited to a single region, but rather acts as a litmus test for the multilateral system’s ability to uphold its founding principles. While affirming Indonesia's continued belief in the United Nations, he argued that the institution must evolve to remain relevant in the 21st century, becoming more agile and representative. He emphasized that the solution to imperfect multilateralism is not to abandon it, but to build a stronger and more effective system. Additionally, Sugiono formally announced Indonesia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2029-2030 term, pledging to prioritize the advancement of global peace and international unity.
