On Tuesday, May 19, members of the Art Solidarity for Palestine coalition gathered on Jalan Asia Afrika in Bandung, West Java, to stage a poignant demonstration. The rally served as a public call to action, urging the Indonesian government to intervene and secure the immediate release of Indonesian citizens and journalists allegedly detained by Israeli forces.
The protest follows reports that five Indonesian citizens lost contact after their vessel, part of the GSF mission, was intercepted by the Israeli military in the waters off Cyprus on Monday, May 18.
Among those currently missing are three prominent Indonesian journalists: Bambang Noroyono (Abeng) and Thoudy Badai (Ody) from Republika, along with Andre Prasetyo Nugroho from Tempo. The group also includes two activists, Andi Angga and Rahendro Herubowo. While initial reports suggested Rahendro was representing iNews, the station’s Editor-in-Chief, Aiman Witjaksono, clarified that he had resigned from the organization in August 2022.
As concerns for the safety of the detainees grow, demonstrators in Bandung used the event to amplify their demands, insisting that diplomatic efforts be prioritized to ensure the safe return of the five individuals caught in the escalation.
Summary
On May 19, the Art Solidarity for Palestine coalition protested in Bandung, West Java, urging the Indonesian government to secure the immediate release of Indonesian citizens and journalists reportedly detained by Israeli forces. This demonstration followed reports that five Indonesians lost contact after their GSF mission vessel was intercepted by the Israeli military near Cyprus on May 18.
The missing group includes three journalists: Bambang Noroyono, Thoudy Badai, and Andre Prasetyo Nugroho, alongside activists Andi Angga and Rahendro Herubowo. Demonstrators emphasized the critical need for diplomatic efforts to ensure the safe return of these five individuals.