Indonesia Offers to Mediate US-Iran Conflict, Awaits Acceptance from Both Sides
Jakarta – Indonesia has offered to mediate the escalating conflict between the United States (US), Israel, and Iran, but the initiative hinges on acceptance from all parties involved. This was revealed by former Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda following a national discussion hosted by President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
Conditions for Mediation
Wirajuda emphasized that Indonesia’s ability to act as a mediator is contingent upon a willingness from both sides of the conflict to engage in dialogue. “We are not discussing whether Indonesia is capable or not. That is an initial thought,” he stated. “In other words, to be a mediator there must also be acceptance from the two conflicting parties. And we have not seen any signs of that,” as reported by Viva.co.id.
Government Readiness to Facilitate Dialogue
Foreign Minister Sugiono reiterated Indonesia’s readiness to facilitate mediation in the Middle East, but also stressed that the decision ultimately rests with the involved parties. “Yes, as stated, if both parties wish, then we, Mr. President, are willing to act as mediators. But if for example there is a view like that, then we will return it to them,” Sugiono said. He affirmed Indonesia’s desire to serve as a bridge to prevent further escalation. according to Viva.co.id.
Previous Mediation Offer to Iran
Sugiono previously extended the offer of mediation during a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. He conveyed Indonesia’s willingness to facilitate dialogue or mediation to prevent further casualties. “Indonesia is ready to play a constructive role in advancing peace, including offering our willingness to facilitate dialogue or mediation, with the common goal of preventing further escalation and stopping the unnecessary loss of innocent lives,” Sugiono stated via his official X account on March 3, 2026.
President Prabowo’s Discussion with National Leaders
The discussions regarding the escalating tensions in the Gulf and their potential impact on Indonesia were held on March 3, 2026, during a 3.5-hour meeting at the Merdeka Palace. President Prabowo Subianto convened with former presidents, vice presidents, former foreign ministers, and leaders of political parties to analyze the geopolitical situation, including the implications of attacks between Israel, the US, and Iran, and subsequent escalations in the Gulf region. As reported by Antara News, Noer Hassan Wirajuda explained that President Prabowo highlighted the ineffectiveness of the current world order and the limited recourse for nations facing military aggression, particularly given the diminished role of the United Nations.
Geopolitical Concerns
Wirajuda noted that the President emphasized the need for Indonesia to strategically position itself, considering the implications of the Gulf escalation extend beyond security and peace to encompass economic concerns. According to MetroTVNews, the meeting aimed to map Indonesia’s navigation through the complex geopolitical landscape.