# Aceh peace anniversary unrest and security response

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/aceh-peace-anniversary-unrest-and-security-response
> Updated: 2026-08-18T00:43:00.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 4.

On August 15, 2026, civil unrest erupted in Banda Aceh during the 21st anniversary of the Helsinki Memorandum of Understanding. Clashes occurred at the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque after individuals attempted to fly the Moon and Star flag. Security forces utilized water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowds.

By August 17, authorities reported that the security situation had stabilized. President’s Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman and Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak characterized the unrest as the actions of a few individuals and maintained that Aceh remains an integral part of Indonesia. The military stated it is supporting police in law enforcement without requiring additional personnel.

Political tension emerged regarding the state response. The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) criticized the security response as “excessive and repressive.” PDIP Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto urged the use of dialogue over violence, specifically noting concerns regarding reports of warning shots being fired near places of worship.

In response to the instability, Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra called for calm, stating the government respects Acehnese citizens committed to the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia and will work to address local social issues. Former Vice President Jusuf Kalla and Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf also urged the community to reject provocations and strengthen brotherhood to preserve the peace. Additionally, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono emphasized the responsibility to safeguard peace while overseeing reconstruction following late 2025 hydrometeorological disasters.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-18: Aceh leaders urge unity and peace on 21st anniversary of MoU Helsinki

Indonesian leaders and Acehnese officials are urging peace and unity on the 21st anniversary of the MoU Helsinki, while calling for stability and disaster rehabilitation in the region.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aceh-leaders-urge-unity-and-peace-on-21st-anniversary-of-mou-helsinki

### 2026-08-17: Aceh security situation stabilizes after clashes during peace anniversary

Indonesian officials report Aceh is stable following clashes during peace commemorations, while PDIP leaders urge dialogue and criticize security forces for using repressive measures.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aceh-security-situation-stabilizes-after-clashes-during-peace-anniversary

### 2026-08-17: Yusril Ihza Mahendra calls for peace in Aceh following unrest

Indonesian Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called for peace in Aceh following clashes during the 21st Aceh Peace Day commemorations involving the display of the Bulan Bintang flag.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/yusril-ihza-mahendra-calls-for-peace-in-aceh-following-unrest

### 2026-08-15: Aceh peace anniversary marked by clashes in Banda Aceh

Clashes erupted in Banda Aceh during the 21st anniversary of the Helsinki peace agreement after attempts to fly the Moon and Star flag led to confrontations between protesters and security forces.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aceh-marks-21st-anniversary-of-peace-day-with-calls-for-unity

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Cite as: Aceh peace anniversary unrest and security response. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/aceh-peace-anniversary-unrest-and-security-response