RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – The Indonesian Muslim Intellectuals Association (ICMI) Advisory Board Chairman Jimly Asshiddiqie proposed that Indonesia postpone its obligations to the Board of Peace (BoP). The proposal came amid rising tensions in the Middle East following the conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel.

“Because of these new changes and developments, I think we can reduce the two things that made Donald Trump very pleased with Indonesia. Regarding the BoP, for example, we have announced that we are suspending our membership obligations for two periods,” Jimly told reporters at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

He explained that the postponement could be implemented until the conflict in the Middle East subsides. Jimly added that the step could also be taken until there is certainty regarding Israel’s recognition of Palestinian independence.

“Until the war between Iran, America, and Israel subsides. Secondly, until there is certainty regarding the schedule for Israel’s recognition of Palestinian independence,” he said.

“Once there is certainty, we will be active again. That is my suggestion,” he added.

Jimly noted that the latest dynamics in the Middle East have given rise to differing views on the BoP. He said some now perceive the forum as being about more than peace.

“I think it is a good idea that, after this war, many people are assuming that this is a board of power, not a board of peace,” he said.

However, Jimly emphasized that he was not proposing Indonesia’s withdrawal from the BoP. He was calling for a temporary suspension of membership obligations until the global situation becomes more favorable.

“It’s not about withdrawing. We are staying, and besides, Donald Trump is already happy with us. Thank God it’s just those two points. We’ll halve them and postpone them,” Jimly said.

He also underlined Indonesia’s strategic position as the country with the largest Muslim population. He said Indonesia is expected to play a role in bridging conflicts that could divide the Islamic world.

“It is time for us to play a role. How can we bridge the potential conflict between Israel and the Islamic world?” Jimly said.

“Hopefully, Arabs and non-Arabs, Turkey, Persia, Iran, Indonesia, and Pakistan can reconcile the Islamic world. We should not be pitted against each other,” he added.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) Cholil Nafis said Indonesia’s participation in the BoP was ineffective. He urged the government to consider withdrawing from the forum amid the Middle East conflict.

“I think the BoP is the same. We are asking that if it is ineffective, just withdraw. Then, how can Indonesia play a role in respecting each other’s sovereignty?” Cholil said.

He added that the ongoing conflict is feared to have wide-ranging impacts, particularly on civil society in the Middle East. He hopes that peace efforts could be pursued quickly through various international diplomatic channels. (Misni Parjiati/Lasti Martina)