Prabowo: Danger of Nuclear War Cannot Be Underestimated
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto warned that the danger of nuclear war cannot be underestimated amid escalating global conflicts.
- He cited ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, and the Middle East as indicators of a highly volatile world situation.
- Prabowo also noted concerns about potential nuclear proliferation, mentioning the possibility of Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern nations pursuing nuclear weapons if Iran possesses them.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has issued a stark warning about the escalating risks of nuclear conflict, emphasizing that the danger cannot be overlooked in the current global climate. Speaking at an event hosted by the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) in Jakarta, Prabowo described the world as being in a highly precarious state with "fierce wars" erupting everywhere.
President Prabowo pointed to the protracted conflict between Ukraine and Russia as a prime example, noting its duration has already surpassed World War I and could potentially exceed World War II. He also highlighted the intensifying situations in Gaza, Lebanon, and the broader Middle East, including tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, as evidence of widespread instability.
These global hotspots, Prabowo stated, increase the potential for the use of nuclear weapons. He specifically voiced concerns about nuclear proliferation, suggesting that if Iran possesses nuclear weapons, it could trigger a desire for similar capabilities in countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Egypt. The President conveyed these remarks to approximately 150 business leaders from Kadin Indonesia, who were gathered to discuss economic development.
Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.