Prabowo Subianto Expresses Surprise at US-Israel War in Iran, Offers Mediation

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has voiced his surprise at the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran, stating he sees “no rationality” in the military campaign. He also revealed that Iranian officials have expressed skepticism about entering new negotiations with the US, feeling they were previously misled Bloomberg and South China Morning Post.

Iranian Concerns About Negotiations

In an interview with Bloomberg on Sunday, March 15, 2026, Prabowo stated that Iranian representatives recently told him they were hesitant to engage in further talks with the US, citing past experiences where they felt “basically they have been tricked” twice. He added that, in an asymmetrical war, Iran’s primary focus is “they really just have to survive.”

Call for Peaceful Resolution

Prabowo expressed his confusion and sadness over the war, emphasizing the lack of rationality in the conflict. He urged all parties involved to prioritize a “peaceful option” and demonstrate a willingness to engage in mediation Bloomberg.

Mediation Efforts and US Ties

Prabowo has offered Indonesia’s services as a mediator and expressed his willingness to travel to Tehran if both sides agree. However, his offer has drawn some criticism within Indonesia, particularly regarding his involvement in US President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” (BoP). He defended his participation, stating that being “inside BOP” allows Indonesia to influence the pursuit of a lasting solution, specifically an independent Palestine through a two-state solution South China Morning Post.

Doubts About Regime Change Through Bombing

Prabowo questioned the effectiveness of the US strategy of bombing Iran to achieve regime change, suggesting that it would require “indiscriminate bombing” to succeed South China Morning Post.

Gaza Peacekeeping on Hold

Indonesia’s plan to send 8,000 peacekeeping troops to Gaza has been put on hold in light of the current situation South China Morning Post.

Regional Tensions

Regional tensions escalated after the US and Israel launched joint attacks on Iran on February 28, resulting in retaliatory strikes by Iran targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries, which Iran claims host “US military assets” Al Jazeera.