Indonesia Calls for ICJ Suit Against Israel Over Kidnapped Activists

Members of Indonesia’s People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) and House of Representatives (DPR) are urging the government to bring a case against Israel to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Deputy Speaker M. Hidayur Nur Wahid said the lawsuit should address the alleged kidnapping and torture of nine Indonesian citizens detained during the Global Sumud Flotilla humanitarian mission to Palestine.

Activists and journalists on the flotilla reported severe beatings, electric shocks and other physical abuses by Israeli forces. One volunteer, Rahendro Herubowo, described being shackled, dragged ashore and electrocuted in an interrogation room. Lawmakers argue that Israel’s actions breach several international conventions, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Geneva Conventions and the UN Convention Against Torture.

The nine participants – four journalists and five humanitarian activists – were repatriated to Indonesia via Istanbul on May 24, 2026. Lawmakers also suggested a joint filing with Malaysia if needed and called for comprehensive medical examinations and trauma‑healing support for the victims.