Indonesian University Condemns Israel's Detention of Aid Volunteers, Urges Government Action

Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) has issued a strong statement expressing profound concern and condemnation regarding the interception and detention of humanitarian volunteers and journalists, including its alumnus Bambang Noroyono, by Israeli forces during the Global Sumud Flotilla mission. The university unequivocally supports the mission's humanitarian goals, which align with UII's fundamental principles of universal solidarity, human dignity, justice, peace, and press freedom.

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We urge the Indonesian government through relevant ministries and diplomatic channels to take active, swift, and measured steps to ensure the safety, protection, and return of all Indonesian citizens involved in this mission.

Bambang Noroyono, a Law graduate from UII and a journalist with Republika, was among the Indonesian citizens detained after sending an SOS message as his ship was intercepted. UII condemns any actions that obstruct humanitarian efforts and endanger the lives of civilians, volunteers, and journalists. The university highlights the critical importance of protecting journalists in their duties, as guaranteed by press freedom principles and international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions.

UII is calling upon the Indonesian government to act decisively and promptly through diplomatic channels to secure the safety and facilitate the return of all Indonesian nationals involved in the mission. The university's stance underscores Indonesia's consistent support for the Palestinian cause and its commitment to advocating for humanitarian aid and justice. This incident, viewed from Indonesia, is not just about the safety of its citizens but also a matter of upholding international law and humanitarian principles in a conflict zone.

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We invite the wider community to continue to prioritize humanitarian concern, global solidarity, and the pursuit of just peace for the Palestinian people.

From an Indonesian perspective, the detention of these individuals, particularly journalists and humanitarian workers, is deeply troubling. While Western media might focus on the security concerns of Israel or the legal aspects of the interception, Indonesian coverage, as exemplified by UII's response and Republika's reporting, centers on the human element and the violation of humanitarian principles. The call for government action reflects a national sentiment that prioritizes the protection of its citizens abroad and solidarity with the Palestinian people. UII's proactive statement and appeal to the government demonstrate the institution's commitment to its values and its role in advocating for justice and human dignity on a global scale.

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We condemn all actions that hinder humanitarian missions and endanger the safety of civilians, volunteers, and journalists.