TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Executive Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), Indonesia’s second-largest Islamic organization, has expressed deep disappointment and concern over a recent meeting between five of its members and Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

PBNU Chair Savic Ali confirmed that the individuals involved were indeed NU members, known as Nahdliyin, with some holding administrative positions.

“As far as I know, the five people are NU members, some are listed as administrators,” Savic told Tempo on Monday, July 15.

Savic emphasized that the meeting was unauthorized and contradicted PBNU's firm stance against Israel. He expressed worry that Israel might exploit the meeting to portray false support from the Muslim community.

“Israel can use the meeting to show that there is a Muslim community standing on their side,” Savic said.

He stressed that the meeting hurt the feelings of the Palestinian people and tarnished the NU's image in international eyes.

Moreover, the organization is currently engaged in intensive dialogue with Palestinian authorities regarding the situation in Gaza and the West Bank. Last Thursday, the Palestinian Ambassador visited and met with PBNU Chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf to discuss this issue.

Savic claimed that he was not yet aware of the reasons behind the meeting between the five members and the Israeli president. However, PBNU has initiated efforts to summon them upon their return to Indonesia.

A photo circulating on social media showing the five Nahdliyin with President Herzog at the Israeli presidential palace has drawn widespread criticism. The photo was shared by an Instagram account with the username @zenmaarif.

Based on the photo caption, they aimed to discuss the Hamas-Israel conflict and Indonesia-Israel relations directly with the Israeli president. The account has been locked by the owner. Tempo has attempted to reach out to @zenmaarif but has not received any response as of this publication.

HENDRIK YAPUTRA

Editor's Choice: PBNU Welcomes Pope Francis' Upcoming Visit to Indonesia

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News