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| The Indonesian Press Council condemned the arrest of Indonesian journalists by the Israeli military during a humanitarian mission heading to Gaza, Palestine. |
Jakarta — The Indonesian Press Council condemned the arrest of three Indonesian journalists by the Israeli military while taking part in the Global Sumud Flotila 2.0 humanitarian mission to Gaza, Palestine, on Monday (May 18, 2026). The interception reportedly occurred in international waters around 310 nautical miles from Gaza.
The three detained journalists are Bambang Noroyono and Thoudy Badai Rifan Billah from Republika, along with Andre Prasetyo Nugroho from Tempo TV. They were part of a group of nine Indonesian citizens involved in the Global Peace Convoy Indonesia (GPCI).
The Global Sumud fleet departed from Marmaris, Türkiye, on Thursday (May 14, 2026). The mission involved 54 vessels carrying food and medical supplies, with participants from around 70 countries.
In its official statement, the Press Council said the Israeli Navy intercepted and detained civilians participating in a humanitarian mission bound for Gaza.
“The Press Council condemns the Israeli military’s interception and arrest of Indonesian journalists and other civilians in international waters while traveling to Gaza, Palestine,” the council stated in Jakarta on Tuesday (May 19, 2026).
The Press Council also confirmed it had communicated with the editors-in-chief of Republika and Tempo TV to monitor developments regarding the journalists’ situation. The arrests were reportedly confirmed on Monday night, Jakarta time.
In addition to condemning the action, the Press Council urged the Indonesian government to use diplomatic channels to secure the release of the journalists and other Indonesian civilians detained by the Israeli military.
“Including facilitating their return to Indonesia,” the statement added.
The council said the statement reflects its commitment to protecting press freedom and ensuring journalists can carry out their duties safely under applicable laws.
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