Jakarta (Antara Babel) - Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Djoko Suyanto said the government will not facilitate Indonesian citizens to go to war in Palestine (jihad).
"Indonesian Muslim community's concern and solidarity against human tragedy in Gaza Strip will be constructive if realized in the form of humanitarian aid. Government will not encourage its citizens to wage war in Palestine," Djoko said here to Antara on Friday.
Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has also called for a ceasefire to end the brutal attacks on civilians, Djoko added.
"Indonesia has consistently and firmly supported the independence of Palestine," Djoko said.
Since the Israeli offensive started on July 8, 2014, more than 1,200 Palestinians, mainly civilians, have been killed and more than 7,000 others injured according to the United Nations (UN).
Since the beginning, President Yudhoyono had been calling on Israel to stop the attacks and to initiate UN-supervised ceasefire.
President Yudhoyono has also appealed to the international community to take serious steps to stop the violence that has resulted in civilian casualties.
The Indonesian government has also provided $1 million worth of humanitarian assistance as well as medical aid to the people who live in Gaza Strip.
The president in almost every occasion has affirmed Indonesia's support for peace and independence of Palestine.
