TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Presidential hopeful from the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI-P)-led coalition Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has condemned the recent Israeli offensive on the Gaza Strip, labeling the attack as violation against human rights.
“The Israeli attack on Gaza that killed dozens of Palestinians and injured hundreds of others is a violation against human rights. The situation there is very disturbing as genocide has taken place,” he told a press conference at his media center on Jl. Cemara in Jakarta, July 10, 2014.
Jokowi also called on outgoing President Yudhoyono to actively defend Palestine in international forums. The inactive Jakarta governor also appealed to the United Nations to take immediate measures to bring the Israeli aggression to an end.
“I also called for the solidarity among peace-loving nations to pressure the Israeli administration to immediately cease its attacks and have a seat at the negotiating table,” he said.
Jokowi said he would meet with the Palestinian ambassador to Indonesia to convey his support to the people of Palestine. “I also ask all Indonesians to assist Palestinians through donation that would be channeled [to Palestinians] by the Palestinian Embassy in Jakarta,” Jokowi added.
Jokowi said Palestine was significant to Indonesia as it was part of the Arab League that supported and recognized Indonesia’s independence.
ANANDA TERESIA
