Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has secured support from Pakistan and the UAE to mediate the Iran conflict, according to an official. Prabowo, a former general, proposed direct talks with Iran to de-escalate tensions, a move criticized by domestic Islamic groups and opposition lawmakers. The offer follows his Ramadan dinner speech in Jakarta, where he outlined plans to deploy peacekeeping troops to Gaza and join Trump’s Board of Peace.

Prabowo’s initiative has divided Indonesia’s Muslim leadership. Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI) and Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) urged reduced engagement, arguing it risks inflaming regional conflicts. However, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed willingness to join Prabowo in Tehran, signaling cross-border coordination. Cholil Nafis, MUI vice chairman, stated Indonesia would withdraw if efforts no longer serve Palestinian independence, linking mediation to Gaza.

The president’s strategy faces skepticism. Jimly Asshiddiqie, an Islamic intellectual leader, called the Pakistan-UAE backing “good news,” but critics warn Jakarta’s neutrality is tenuous. UAE’s involvement highlights Gulf states’ interest in stabilizing West Asia, while Iran’s regional rivals may view Prabowo’s overture as a diplomatic counterweight.

If successful, Prabowo’s mediation could reshape Indonesia’s foreign policy, balancing Muslim solidarity with pragmatic diplomacy. Sharif’s endorsement and Prabowo’s troop offer underscore a shift toward multilateralism, though domestic backlash and geopolitical complexities remain hurdles.