AWDI Condemns Detention of Indonesian Journalists and Civilians by Israeli Navy in Gaza Waters

JAKARTA — The Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Democratic Journalists Association, Asosiasi Wartawan Demokrasi Indonesia (AWDI), has strongly condemned the interception and detention of Indonesian journalists and civilians by the Israeli Navy during a humanitarian mission bound for Gaza.

The statement was delivered by AWDI Chairman following the organization’s receipt of an official statement from the Dewan Pers concerning the incident involving the international humanitarian convoy “Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0.”

According to information obtained by AWDI from the Press Council, the humanitarian fleet departed from the Turkish city of Marmaris on May 14, 2026, consisting of 54 vessels carrying food supplies and medical aid intended for civilians in Gaza. The convoy involved participants from 74 countries and was operating in international waters approximately 310 nautical miles from Gaza when it was intercepted by the Israeli Navy on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Among those reportedly detained were members of the Global Peace Convoy Indonesia (GPCI), including Indonesian civilians and journalists from Republika and Tempo TV. The Indonesian journalists identified in the report include Bambang Noroyono, Thoudy Baday, Rifan Bilah, Andre Prasetyo, and Nugroho, alongside nine other Indonesian civilians participating in the humanitarian mission.

AWDI described the interception as a serious violation of humanitarian principles and press freedom. The organization stressed that journalists carrying out professional duties in conflict-related humanitarian missions should be protected under international law.

“We strongly condemn the actions carried out by the Israeli Navy against humanitarian volunteers, journalists, and Indonesian civilians aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla,” AWDI stated. “This incident represents a grave humanitarian concern and an attack on the freedom of the press.”

AWDI has urged the Indonesian government to immediately pursue diplomatic measures to secure the release and safety of the detained Indonesians. The organization also called on the international community to pay closer attention to the safety of journalists and humanitarian workers operating in conflict zones.

The association added that AWDI and its national media partners stand in solidarity with the detained journalists and civilians, while expressing hope that swift diplomatic efforts can resolve the situation peacefully.

Team