Indonesian Muslim Group Opposes Israeli Presence at IPU Conference

Published October 10th, 2000 - 02:00 GMT
Al Bawaba
Al Bawaba

Hundreds of Muslim protestors on Tuesday staged a rally to reject Israeli participation in an upcoming Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) conference to open in Jakarta later this week, reported AFP. 

The protestors, who claimed to be activists of the Islam Defenders Front (FPI), unfurled banners which read, "It is religiously unlawful for the Jews to set foot on Indonesian soil." Israelis come, we will slaughter you," and "Reject the delegation of Israeli imperialists," Indonesia's news agency Antara said. 

In a statement, the protestors voiced readiness to die to expel Israelis who "want to force their way into Indonesian territory." 

Indonesian House Speaker Akbar Tanjung, who hosts the meeting, has said the Israelis have confirmed attendance at the conference, which is to open on Sunday, AFP added. 

FPI secretary, Reza Pahlevi, said the front will forcibly pick up Israeli delegates at the city`s airport if they insist on attending the conference, Antara said.  

Anti-Israeli sentiment has been on the rise in Indonesia, particularly after violence in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, which have left around 100 people dead, mostly Palestinians, according to AFP. 

"We see Israel as a colonial ruler, oppressor and the world's biggest violator of human rights," Pahlevi said - (Several Sources) 

 

© 2000 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)

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