Indonesia Rejects trump’s Gaza Relocation Plan, Citing Hidden Agenda
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has raised serious concerns over U.S. president Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to indonesia. Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas described the plan as “something fishy” and warned of its potential to undermine Palestinian resistance groups while strengthening Israel’s territorial ambitions.In a written statement on January 23, 2025, Anwar questioned the motives behind Trump’s humanitarian gesture. “Is Trump’s plan worthy of support or not? I don’t think so, because there’s ‘something fishy’ behind this plan that cannot be accepted,” he said. Anwar argued that reducing Gaza’s population would weaken groups like Hamas,making it harder for them to recruit members. This, he believes, would give the U.S. and Israel greater control over Palestinian resistance efforts.
Anwar also expressed skepticism about the long-term intentions of the plan. “with the Gaza region emptied, Israel will be even more eager to realize the Greater Israel they have dreamed of, as they will be able to control the territory of Palestine,” he stated. He urged the Indonesian government to reject the proposal, emphasizing that it sacrifices Palestinian independence for the benefit of Israel.
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also weighed in,asserting that it has never received any formal proposal regarding the relocation of Gaza residents. Spokesperson Rolliansyah Soemirat clarified on January 20,2025,“Indonesia has never received any data regarding this matter.” This lack of official communication suggests the plan has not been seriously considered by Indonesian authorities.
Instead of supporting relocation, indonesia has focused on providing humanitarian aid and supporting the reconstruction of Gaza. Foreign Minister sugiono announced on January 17,2025,that Indonesia is prepared to increase aid shipments and send peacekeeping forces to Palestine if requested by the United nations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further emphasized its stance in an official statement, declaring that any attempts to displace Gaza residents are “unacceptable.” The statement warned that reducing the Palestinian population in Gaza could facilitate the expansion of Israel’s illegal occupation. “A ceasefire in Gaza must be a moment to begin dialogue and negotiations to achieve a two-state solution, following international law and the international parameters that have been agreed upon,” it read.
| Key points | Details |
|—————-|————-|
| Plan Overview | Trump’s proposal to relocate Gazans to Indonesia |
| Concerns Raised | Weakening of Palestinian resistance, expansion of Israeli control |
| Indonesian Response | Rejection of the plan, focus on humanitarian aid and reconstruction |
| Official Statement | Displacement attempts deemed unacceptable, support for a two-state solution |
Indonesia’s firm stance highlights its commitment to Palestinian sovereignty and its skepticism of external agendas. As the international community continues to debate the future of Gaza, Indonesia remains a vocal advocate for a just and lasting resolution to the conflict.
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In January 2025, Indonesia made headlines for its firm opposition to a controversial proposal by former U.S. President donald Trump to relocate Gazans to Indonesia. The plan, which has sparked global debate, has been criticized for its potential to undermine Palestinian sovereignty and strengthen Israeli territorial ambitions. To shed light on the situation,World-Today-News Senior editor,Sarah Mitchell,sat down with Dr. Haris Surya, a geopolitical analyst specializing in Middle Eastern affairs, to discuss the implications of the proposal and Indonesia’s response.
Understanding Trump’s Relocation Plan
Sarah Mitchell: dr. Surya, could you start by explaining the details of trump’s proposal to relocate Gazans to Indonesia? What was the stated goal of this plan?
Dr. Haris Surya: Certainly, Sarah. Trump’s plan, which was unofficially floated in early 2025, suggested relocating Palestinians from Gaza to Indonesia under the guise of providing humanitarian relief. the stated goal was to alleviate the dire living conditions in Gaza and offer displaced Palestinians a new home. Though, many critics, including Indonesian leaders, saw this as a thinly veiled attempt to depopulate Gaza, which could have profound political and territorial implications.
Concerns Over Palestinian Sovereignty
Sarah Mitchell: Indonesia has been vocal about its concerns regarding this plan. Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) described it as “something fishy.” What are the key fears here?
Dr. Haris Surya: The primary concern is that reducing Gaza’s population would weaken Palestinian resistance groups like Hamas, making it harder for them to mobilize and recruit members. Anwar Abbas argued that this could hand greater control over palestinian territories to Israel, facilitating their long-standing ambition of creating a “Greater Israel.” Essentially, the plan is seen as a way to undermine Palestinian independence and strengthen Israeli occupation.
Indonesia’s Skepticism of External Agendas
Sarah Mitchell: Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that it never received any formal proposal regarding this relocation. How does this lack of communication reflect on the plan’s legitimacy?
Dr. Haris surya: the absence of formal communication suggests that the proposal was never a serious or well-thought-out initiative. It raises questions about the motives behind Trump’s announcement. Was it a trial balloon to gauge international reaction, or was it intended to sow discord? Indonesia’s skepticism is justified, especially given the lack of clarity and consultation.
Indonesia’s Commitment to Humanitarian Aid
Sarah mitchell: instead of supporting relocation, Indonesia has focused on providing humanitarian aid to Gaza. Can you elaborate on these efforts?
Dr. Haris surya: Absolutely. Indonesia has consistently supported Palestine through humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts. Foreign Minister Sugiono recently announced plans to increase aid shipments and even deploy peacekeeping forces if requested by the United Nations. this approach aligns with Indonesia’s long-standing commitment to palestinian sovereignty and a two-state solution.
The Call for a Two-State Solution
Sarah Mitchell: The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has emphasized the importance of a two-state solution. Why is this approach crucial in the context of Gaza?
Dr. haris Surya: A two-state solution is the only viable path to lasting peace in the region. It ensures that both Israelis and Palestinians can coexist with their own sovereign states. By pushing for this solution, Indonesia is advocating for a resolution that adheres to international law and respects the rights of both parties. Displacing Gazans, as Trump’s plan suggests, would only exacerbate tensions and undermine the prospects for peace.
Conclusion: Upholding Palestinian Independence
Sarah Mitchell: Thank you,Dr. Surya,for your insights. It’s clear that Indonesia’s rejection of Trump’s plan reflects its unwavering commitment to palestinian sovereignty and a just resolution to the conflict. As the international community continues to grapple with the future of Gaza, Indonesia’s stance serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing humanitarian aid and diplomatic solutions over controversial and perhaps harmful proposals.
