The escalating situation in the Middle East has raised concerns worldwide. The parties involved in this conflict appear to have their own interests. Indonesia, inevitably, is potentially impacted by this escalation. On the other hand, Indonesia also has the potential to contribute advantages and play a more active role, especially as a country with the largest Muslim population in the world.
Dr Rendi Prayuda is an Associate Professor in the Department of International Relations, Riau Islamic University. He believes that what is happening today in the Middle East is the result of regional political constructions.
He said that the conflict is inseparable from the interests of each country. From an international relations perspective, there are at least four dimensions of interest influencing the current situation, for Israel, Iran, and the United States.
Indonesia's long experience in Middle Eastern conflicts allows its military to enter the region using a socio-religious approach. In Lebanon, for example, Indonesia's role is evident because the good relations were based on this aspect.
President Prabowo must be careful in viewing this situation. The principle is that something is being transacted for political purposes.
"Let us adhere to the preamble to the Constitution, which states that colonialism must be abolished," he emphasised.
Therefore, Indonesia must campaign for a ceasefire, because otherwise it will lead to open war, which will have further impacts on regional and global security stability.
What can be done when conflict occurs is communication and mediation; Indonesia can act as a facilitator in this regard. However, this cannot be done openly. Closed communication must first be conducted with the Iranian government. Indonesia has the potential to do this, as its approach is not political but rather cultural as a Muslim country.
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