A United Nations special rapporteur has called on Indonesia to reconsider its participation in a U.S.-led initiative aimed at resolving the conflict in Gaza. Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, argued that the "Board of Peace"—an initiative introduced by President Donald Trump in January—is fundamentally flawed due to a lack of Palestinian representation.
Concerns Over Neutrality
Speaking during a visit to Jakarta, Albanese cautioned that the board is being shaped primarily by U.S. and Israeli interests. She suggested that Indonesia, which has historically been a staunch supporter of the Palestinian cause, risks undermining its position by engaging with a framework where the "rules are set by Israel."
The "Board of Peace" was established to address global conflicts that are traditionally managed through UN-led processes. Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, has committed to providing troops for an international stabilization force in Gaza as part of its involvement in the initiative.
Alternative Diplomatic Paths
Rather than participating in the U.S.-led board, Albanese recommended that Jakarta align itself with the "Hague Group." This coalition, which includes nations like South Africa and Malaysia, focuses on upholding international law and supporting legal processes regarding the conflict, including proceedings at the International Criminal Court.
While a 2025 ceasefire successfully facilitated the release of hostages and prisoners, broader efforts to secure an Israeli withdrawal and disarm Hamas have largely stalled. As regional tensions persist, the UN expert’s intervention highlights the ongoing debate over the legitimacy and effectiveness of alternative diplomatic frameworks in the Middle East.
