Indonesia Monitors Middle East Crisis, Advises Citizens to Postpone Travel

  • 13 Mar 2026 03:23 WIB
  •  Voice of Indonesia

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono expressed hope that the wisdom of world leaders could help ease global tensions. He made the statement while attending the Pejambon Iftar on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at the Nusantara Building, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jakarta.

“Together, we hope that with the wisdom of world leaders, tensions can be reduced and a better future can be secured for all of us,” Sugiono said.

The Ramadan iftar gathering was attended by members of the Indonesian House of Representatives, ambassadors from friendly nations, and representatives of international organizations based in Indonesia.

On the occasion, Sugiono urged the global community to prioritize solidarity and unity, values he emphasized as essential for maintaining stability and peace worldwide.

His remarks came as international attention focused on the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, which has received military support from the United States.

The war has heightened tensions across the Middle East, with repercussions felt globally, including by Indonesian citizens. The government has been closely monitoring the situation, particularly the safety of Indonesians in conflict zones.

Through the Indonesian Embassy in Tehran, evacuation efforts were carried out. A total of 32 Indonesian nationals were evacuated from Iran via land routes to Baku, Azerbaijan. The first group of 22 evacuees arrived safely in Indonesia on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.

The conflict has also disrupted international shipping lanes in the Gulf. Two Pertamina-owned oil tankers were temporarily held in the Strait of Hormuz.

In addition, three Indonesian crew members of the tugboat Musaffah 2 were reported missing after the vessel sank in waters between the United Arab Emirates and Oman on Friday, March 6, 2026. One crew member survived and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Oman.

Witnesses reported that the Musaffah 2 experienced an explosion before catching fire and sinking. Authorities in the UAE and Oman are still investigating the cause of the incident.

The Indonesian government has also advised its citizens to postpone travel to the Middle East until the security situation improves. With the conflict entering its second week, the government remains vigilant, especially as preparations for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage approach. (Diffa Sephiawardhani/Sri Wahyuni)

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