Nahdlatul Ulama and the Palestinian Question: Religious Authority, Humanitarian Solidarity, and Indonesian Public Discourse
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65815/d18f8n45Keywords:
Nahdlatul Ulama, Palestine, religious authority, humanitarianism, Indonesian societyAbstract
The Palestinian issue occupies an important position within Indonesian Muslim public discourse, with major Islamic organizations contributing to debates concerning humanitarianism, international justice, and religious solidarity. This article examines the role of Nahdlatul Ulama in shaping Indonesian perspectives on Palestine. Using qualitative institutional and discourse analysis, the study examines organizational statements, religious discourse, humanitarian initiatives, and public engagement. The article argues that Nahdlatul Ulama's position illustrates the complex role of religious organizations in connecting Islamic moral principles with Indonesia's foreign policy traditions and humanitarian commitments. Palestine-related discourse is not limited to theological solidarity but also encompasses questions of civilian protection, international law, peace, and humanitarian assistance. The study analyzes how religious authority influences public understanding of the Palestinian conflict while also considering the organization's emphasis on moderation and peaceful engagement. The article proposes that Indonesian Islamic organizations can contribute to international humanitarian discourse by combining religious legitimacy with evidence-based advocacy and humanitarian principles. The study concludes that Nahdlatul Ulama represents an important intermediary between religious values, civil society, and Indonesian public discourse concerning Palestine.
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