TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ulemas Council (MUI) has expressed gratitude to any party that has taken part in ensuring the success of a rally held in Jakarta on Dec 17 to defend Palestine.

"MUI expresses gratitude to all parties," MUI Deputy Chairman Zainut Tauhid Saadi said here on Monday.

People from all walks of life, including leaders of Islamic mass organizations, social figures, ulemas, government officials, military personnel, police officers, and medical workers, took part in the peaceful rally.

The rally, coordinated by MUI, is a joint action involving all elements of the Indonesian nation. It reflects Indonesia?s support to free Palestinians from Israeli oppression and colonization.

"The action also serves as a support for the government`s foreign policy to find a peaceful solution (to the conflict) in the Middle East, which has heightened following US President Donald Trump`s unilateral recognition of Jerusalem as Israeli capital," he stated.

In addition, it also confirms Indonesia`s stand to the world that it firmly opposes any form of colonization that runs counter to the principles of humanity and justice, he noted.

In the rally, MUI and all elements of the Indonesian nation taking part in the rally issued a petition, calling for the global community to work hand-in-hand to fight Israel and its ally, US.

"MUI calls on the world community to lift the US mandate as a mediator for peace between Palestine and Israel, as the US has blatantly hurt international justice," he remarked.

ANTARA