Indonesia Suspends Board of Peace (BoP) Discussions Amid Iran-US Conflict

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) has officially suspended all discussions regarding the Board of Peace (BoP) following the sharp escalation of conflict between Iran and the United States-Israel alliance this month.

Ministry spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang confirmed on Friday, March 6, 2026, that the government is placing international institutional engagements on hold to prioritize regional monitoring and the safety of Indonesian citizens (WNI) in the Middle East.

The decision reflects a strategic shift toward crisis management, as the "Free and Active" foreign policy of Indonesia dictates a focus on immediate humanitarian and national interests over organizational bureaucracy during active conflict.

With the Middle East facing increased volatility, the Ministry’s primary objective has shifted toward anticipatory measures for citizens in affected areas. Yvonne Mewengkang clarified that the term "on-hold" applies to all current BoP deliberations until the security landscape stabilizes.

"As stated by the Foreign Minister a few days ago, all discussions with the BoP are currently suspended or, in other words, 'on-hold,'" Yvonne explained during a media briefing in Jakarta, as quoted by Antara.

She emphasized that every decision regarding international participation is weighed against the evolving situation on the ground.

The suspension also arrives amidst domestic debate. President Prabowo Subianto has reportedly acknowledged various inputs and criticisms from the public suggesting that Indonesia should suspend or even terminate its membership in the Board of Peace entirely.

"The government is not anti-criticism. We listen while observing the situation," said Minister of Agraria and Spatial Planning Nusron Wahid, who accompanied the President during a meeting with Islamic organizational leaders on Thursday, March 5.

Despite the current suspension, the government still views the BoP as a potential instrument for diplomacy, particularly in its efforts to push for peace in Palestine. ***