Indonesia denies reports it is accepting Palestinians removed from Gazans

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs today denied reports that discussions have been held and agreements made regarding the transfer of Palestinians from Gaza to Indonesia, the Palestinian Information Centre reported.

Ministry spokesperson, Roy Sumirat, said in a press release: “The Indonesian government has not discussed with any party nor received information about a plan to transfer Gaza residents to Indonesia, as reported by several foreign media outlets.”

Sumirat’s statements came in response to Israeli reports that about 100 Gaza residents would travel to Indonesia to work in the construction sector as part of a pilot programme for voluntary migration.

He emphasised that Indonesia is currently focusing more on encouraging an agreement on the second phase of the ceasefire, the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and ensuring that the reconstruction of the enclave begins immediately.

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