President Prabowo visits Middle East to seek support for Gaza evacuation plan

Prabowo Subianto begins diplomatic tour across five nations to help evacuate 1,000 Palestinians from Gaza.

President Prabowo Subianto delivers a briefing during the Joint Economic Discussion at Menara Mandiri in Senayan, Jakarta, on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Photo by Aditya Pradana Putra/Antara

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

President Prabowo Subianto visits Middle East to seek support for Gaza evacuation plan, a bold diplomatic move aimed at strengthening Indonesia’s humanitarian role in the global stage. His multi-country tour, which began early Wednesday morning, will take him to the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Egypt, Qatar, and Jordan. The central goal of the trip is to gain regional support for Indonesia’s plan to evacuate 1,000 Palestinians from war-torn Gaza.

Accompanied by Foreign Minister Sugiono and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, President Prabowo departed from Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base in Jakarta in the early hours of April 9. His first stop is Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. From there, he will proceed to the other four countries, all of which are crucial players in the Middle East with ongoing involvement in the Palestinian cause.

In a press conference held just before his departure, Prabowo emphasized that the proposed evacuation will only proceed if all involved parties agree. This includes the approval of governments and humanitarian agencies already engaged in Gaza. “If the conditions in Gaza allow, they must return to their area of origin. I think that is the attitude of the Indonesian Government. For that, I must consult with the regional leaders,” he stated.

Diplomatic mission rooted in humanitarian urgency

President Prabowo’s visit marks a serious commitment by Indonesia to respond to the humanitarian disaster unfolding in Gaza. With casualties mounting and infrastructure devastated by conflict, the situation for civilians—especially children, the elderly, and the injured—has become critical. Indonesia’s evacuation plan is focused on offering temporary shelter to 1,000 Palestinians, prioritizing the most vulnerable groups.

“This is not something simple,” Prabowo said. “But Indonesia's commitment to supporting the safety of the Palestinian people, supporting Palestinian independence, encourages us to play a more active role.” His words reflect Indonesia’s long-standing stance in support of Palestine, which has been a consistent element in its foreign policy.

According to Prabowo, this humanitarian step is also a response to the international community’s request for Indonesia to take a more assertive role in Middle Eastern diplomacy. Over the past few weeks, the Indonesian government has received multiple diplomatic communications from various parties seeking clarity on Indonesia’s position and readiness to help the people of Gaza.

Key strategic allies in the Middle East

Each country on Prabowo’s itinerary holds unique importance in the context of the Gaza crisis. The United Arab Emirates, for instance, has been a major donor and supporter of Palestinian aid. Turkey has positioned itself as a vocal critic of aggression in Gaza and has strong influence through humanitarian organizations operating on the ground.

Egypt shares a border with Gaza and controls one of the main entry points for humanitarian convoys. Jordan and Qatar have long supported Palestinian causes through political, financial, and medical aid. Securing alignment with these nations is essential for ensuring a coordinated and safe evacuation process.

By personally visiting these capitals, President Prabowo aims to ensure that Indonesia’s offer to evacuate and temporarily house Palestinians is not only welcomed but also operationally supported by regional powers. The evacuation would require airspace access, security guarantees, and logistical cooperation—something that can only be achieved through direct diplomatic engagement.

Indonesia’s growing international role

The fact that President Prabowo visits Middle East to seek support for Gaza evacuation plan is a powerful message to the world about Indonesia’s evolving diplomatic posture. The archipelago nation, known for its non-aligned foreign policy and strong advocacy for peace, is now asserting itself more visibly on global humanitarian issues.

This mission adds to a string of international efforts by Indonesia to be seen not only as a regional leader in Southeast Asia but also as a global actor in humanitarian and diplomatic initiatives. Prabowo’s proactive diplomacy is seen by analysts as a move that not only addresses immediate humanitarian concerns but also strengthens Indonesia’s global standing.

“The world is watching, and this is a moment where we can make a real difference,” Prabowo said, underlining the weight of the responsibility on his shoulders.

Temporary refuge with a plan for return

President Prabowo clarified that the evacuation of Palestinians from Gaza to Indonesia would be strictly temporary. “Our aim is not to relocate them permanently, but to offer a safe place for recovery until Gaza is once again livable,” he said. The Indonesian government envisions hosting evacuees in designated shelters, possibly in collaboration with international humanitarian agencies and the United Nations.

Indonesian officials have begun early-stage coordination with domestic agencies to prepare for the possible arrival of evacuees. Plans are being drawn up to ensure access to medical services, psychological support, housing, and education—especially for displaced children. Local governments are also expected to be involved in the implementation of temporary relocation facilities.

This plan mirrors previous efforts by countries that have hosted refugees during periods of war or political instability. Indonesia, with its history of tolerance and multiculturalism, aims to provide a welcoming and secure environment for those fleeing violence.

Challenges and caution in the face of complexity

While the intention is noble, the mission is fraught with challenges. The volatile situation in Gaza, the complex political landscape of the Middle East, and the sensitivities involved in cross-border evacuation of civilians make this an exceptionally difficult operation.

President Prabowo acknowledged these hurdles openly, stating that the entire plan hinges on receiving a "green light" from all key stakeholders. Coordination with the United Nations, the Red Crescent, and national governments will be critical in making the evacuation viable.

Nevertheless, the fact that President Prabowo visits Middle East to seek support for Gaza evacuation plan speaks volumes about Indonesia’s diplomatic resolve. It’s a move that not only reinforces solidarity with the Palestinian people but also tests Indonesia’s ability to navigate one of the world’s most complicated geopolitical arenas.

A mission of compassion and courage

President Prabowo’s Middle East visit is more than a diplomatic formality. It is a mission driven by compassion, strategic diplomacy, and Indonesia’s longstanding support for Palestine. If successful, it will mark a major milestone in Indonesia’s role as a humanitarian power and a peacemaker on the global stage.

As he consults with leaders in Abu Dhabi, Ankara, Cairo, Doha, and Amman, Prabowo carries with him the hopes of a nation committed to peace and justice. The world will be watching closely—and perhaps, inspired by a new voice in global humanitarian leadership.