Southeast Asia Stands With Palestine. Here's Why Indonesia Cannot Normalize With Israel

For more than two years, Israel has waged war and genocide against Gaza. Thousands of Palestinian civilians have been killed, entire neighborhoods destroyed, and humanitarian conditions have collapsed. While distant geographically, Southeast Asia has not been indifferent. Across the region, governments and citizens have largely shared one position: support for Palestine and opposition to Israel's genocide.

That unity now faces quiet pressure. Reports linking Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to Israel and renewed talk of diplomatic “normalization” have raised concern across the region. Jakarta has denied any policy shift, but the episode raises important questions about the country's stance.

Southeast Asia’s Longstanding Support for Palestine

Southeast Asia’s support for Palestine is not new. It is rooted in history, identity, and shared experience with colonialism. Many Southeast Asian states emerged from foreign rule in the 20th