MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – As the crisis in Gaza worsens, Muhammadiyah reaffirms its strong position in support of the Palestinian people. In a recent episode of Ruang Publik TVMu on Saturday, April 12, Vice Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Department of International Relations and Cooperation Yasmi Adriansyah spoke about the ongoing conflict and humanitarian situation in Gaza.
During the interview with host Arina Nur Rohmah, Yasmi expressed Muhammadiyah firm alignment with the Indonesian government and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in opposing Israel’s continued attacks and occupation of Palestinian land.
“We fully support the call to stop the genocide, violence, and occupation in Palestine. Our commitment is clear: to support Palestinian independence and protect its people from ongoing brutality,” Yasmi said.
Citing recent reports from the Palestinian Ministry of Health, Yasmi noted that since Israel resumed its offensive in Gaza on March 18, 2025, over 1,200 civilians have been killed, more than 3,000 injured, and critical infrastructure has been destroyed.
He also criticized a proposal by former U.S. President Donald Trump to relocate Gaza residents, a plan that has been widely rejected by Arab countries and other countries including Indonesia.
Addressing the Indonesian President’s recent idea to evacuate 1,000 Palestinians, Yasmi urged careful consideration. “Even if the intention is good, the plan came unexpectedly and without public discussion. A well-thought-out policy is essential to avoid negative consequences,” he said.
Yasmi warned that such evacuation plans could align with Israel’s and the U.S.’s agenda to permanently displace Palestinians. He stressed the need for Indonesia to remain cautious and consistent in supporting Palestinian sovereignty.
He also highlighted Muhammadiyah’s continuous humanitarian efforts, including delivering aid in the areas of health, education, and basic needs. However, Yasmi emphasized that lasting peace requires more than charity.
“Humanitarian aid is important, but the real solution lies in political action. Unfortunately, global institutions like the UN have not been effective, especially with Israel openly ignoring international law and receiving strong support from the U.S.,” he explained.
As a practical step, Yasmi proposed strengthening bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and Palestine to enable more direct support. He even suggested that military protection might be needed to ensure humanitarian aid reaches those in need safely.
“Most importantly, we must keep advocating for the right of Palestinians to live freely in their own land,” he said.
