Chairul Fikri, Jakarta – Indonesia is considering legal measures to seek the release of nine Indonesian citizens reportedly detained by Israeli forces while participating in the humanitarian aid fleet known as the Global Sumud Flotilla, Coordinating Minister for Legal Affairs Yusril Ihza Mahendra said on Monday.
The nine Indonesians, including two journalists, were reportedly detained by Israeli forces near waters off Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean.
"This matter must be clarified immediately, and we will soon take firm legal steps because in our democratic country there are guarantees of freedom and civil rights, so our people should not face pressure or lose their freedoms," Yusril said in Jakarta.
Yusril said he had not yet received official confirmation regarding the reported detention and would coordinate further with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Indonesia does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel.
"So far, I have not received complete information, but I will gather as much information as possible and later explain the matter in greater detail," he said.
According to information from Global Peace Convoy Indonesia, the Indonesian citizens were aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip as part of an international humanitarian mission.
The group was reportedly intercepted by Israeli forces near Cypriot waters.
Those identified as being detained include journalists Bambang Noroyono and Thoudy Badai, along with Herman Budianto Sudarsono, Ronggo Wirasanu, Andi Angga Prasadewa, Aras Asad Muhammad, Hendro Prasetyo, Andre Prasetyo Nugroho, and Rahendro Herubowo.