Jakarta – The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has emphasized that the Indonesia Hospital in Gaza was established to provide humanitarian aid and medical services to Palestinians. The statement was made by the Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson, Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, through a text message on Tuesday.
According to Antara News Agency, the Indonesia Hospital is now fully managed by the Palestinian authority in Gaza. Indonesian volunteers frequently assist at the hospital, contributing to its operations and services. This clarification comes in response to allegations from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) regarding the hospital’s use.
IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari accused Hamas of constructing a tunnel underneath the Indonesia Hospital, allegedly using it to launch attacks. Hagari also claimed that Hamas used fuel supplies from the hospital for these activities, citing intercepted call recordings among Hamas officials.
In contrast, Iqbal highlighted the critical role of the Indonesia Hospital in the current context of Gaza. Amid the rising number of victims from Israeli attacks, the hospital is one of the few health facilities still functioning in the region, often treating patients beyond its capacity.
Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi has been vocal in condemning attacks on civilians and humanitarian facilities in Gaza, including hospitals and ambulances. The minister has called for an immediate cessation of such assaults.
The safety of Indonesian volunteers at the hospital has also been a concern. Iqbal mentioned that three Indonesian volunteers at the hospital are in good condition and have opted not to participate in the government-assisted evacuation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is in regular communication with them to monitor their well-being and ensure their safety amidst the ongoing Israeli-Hamas conflict.
The situation underscores the complex and volatile nature of the conflict in Gaza, where humanitarian efforts and civilian facilities often find themselves amidst hostilities.