Escalating tensions in the Middle East are challenging international efforts at peacemaking, according to an analysis released Sunday. US-Israeli strikes on Iran have prompted questions about the credibility of the Board of Peace, a diplomatic initiative intended to foster stability in the region.
Board of Peace Credibility Questioned
Ahmad Khoirul Umam, an international relations expert at Paramadina University, stated that the attacks “widen the gap between claims of regional stability and real military practices, while testing the credibility of peace narratives promoted through the Board of Peace.” The strikes have led countries like Turkiye and Indonesia to reconsider their involvement with the Board.
Escalation and Regional Response
The conflict began with attacks launched by Israel on Iran on February 28, 2026. President Donald Trump subsequently announced the start of a large-scale US combat operation in Iran. One strike involved seven rockets fired toward Tehran, near the residence of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iran responded with missile strikes targeting Israel, as well as Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. The situation has prompted calls for de-escalation, with Ahmad Khoirul Umam stressing the need for global powers to prevent wider instability.
Potential for Wider Conflict
Ahmad warned that continued escalation could embolden US and Israeli actions, potentially extending the conflict beyond the Middle East. He specifically mentioned regions including Greenland, Canada, Europe, and Latin America as potentially becoming targets.
Indonesia is taking a diplomatic role, with the Indonesian Foreign Ministry stating that President Prabowo Subianto is prepared to travel to Iran to facilitate dialogue and restore stability and security.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Board of Peace?
The Board of Peace is a diplomatic initiative involving Indonesia and eight other Muslim countries, focused on supporting a two-state solution for Gaza residents.
What prompted the recent conflict?
The conflict began with attacks launched by Israel on Iran on February 28, 2026, followed by a large-scale US combat operation in Iran announced by President Donald Trump.
What is Indonesia’s role in the current situation?
President Prabowo Subianto is prepared to travel to Iran to facilitate dialogue aimed at restoring stability and security, according to the Indonesian Foreign Ministry.
As the situation continues to evolve, what role will diplomacy play in preventing further escalation and achieving a lasting resolution?
