Govt Maximizes Diplomatic Channels to Protect 9 Indonesian Citizens Detained by Israel

Jakarta: The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that a total of nine Indonesian citizens participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 mission were arrested and detained by Israel en route to the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.

Previously, the organizer of the Global Sumud Flotilla movement, via the Instagram account @globalsumudflotilla, reported that Israel had intercepted all GSF 2.0 humanitarian mission vessels.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with the Indonesian Representative Office, continues to conduct intensive engagement with local authorities and all relevant parties to ensure the protection of these nine Indonesian citizens," said Yvonne Mewengkang, Spokesperson for the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a written statement to the media.

"All diplomatic channels and consular measures will continue to be maximized to ensure full protection for the Indonesian citizens and their safe return," she continued.

"Indonesia urges the Israeli government to immediately release all detained ships and crew members of international humanitarian missions," Yvonne concluded.

Previously, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs coordinated with the Indonesian Embassies in Ankara, Cairo, Rome and Amman and the Indonesian Consulate General in Istanbul to prepare measures to protect Indonesian citizens.

These anticipatory measures include issuing Travel Documents instead of Passports (SPLP) if Indonesian citizens' passports are confiscated, and providing medical support if needed.

The Indonesian Mission is also approaching local authorities to ensure that transit access and the repatriation process for Indonesian citizens can proceed without immigration obstacles.