The leader of Indonesia’s largest Muslim organization, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), is facing mounting calls to resign after inviting a pro-Israel scholar to speak at an internal event, triggering widespread backlash among members and the broader public. The controversy has sparked intense debate within Indonesia’s Muslim community, highlighting sensitivities surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict and the role of religious leadership in international engagement.
The criticism centers on the invitation extended to an American academic known for publicly supporting Israel. The scholar was reportedly invited to participate in discussions related to interfaith dialogue and global peace initiatives. However, many NU members and affiliated groups argued that the decision was inappropriate, especially amid ongoing violence in Gaza, where Israeli military operations have resulted in significant civilian casualties.
Opposition to the invitation quickly grew after news of the event circulated online. Critics accused the NU leadership of being insensitive to Palestinian suffering and undermining Indonesia’s longstanding pro-Palestine stance. Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel and has consistently supported Palestinian statehood in international forums.
Several regional NU branches, student groups, and senior clerics issued statements condemning the decision. Some called the move a “serious moral mistake,” while others argued that inviting a figure associated with pro-Israel advocacy risked damaging the organization’s credibility. Demonstrations were organized in a number of cities, with participants urging the NU chairman to step down.
Those demanding resignation argue that NU leadership failed to consider the emotional and political implications of the invitation. They contend that hosting a pro-Israel voice at a time when global attention is focused on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza sends the wrong message to Muslims in Indonesia and abroad.
In response to the escalating criticism, NU leaders defended the decision, stating that the invitation was intended to promote academic exchange and broaden perspectives within the organization. They emphasized that the event did not signal support for Israeli policies and reiterated NU’s official commitment to the Palestinian cause.
Supporters of the NU chairman argue that engaging with diverse viewpoints is part of the organization’s historical mission to foster dialogue and understanding. They warned against allowing internal disagreements to undermine NU’s unity and influence. Some scholars also noted that rejecting dialogue completely may limit Indonesia’s ability to contribute to international peace efforts.
Government officials have largely remained neutral, urging the public and NU members to resolve the issue peacefully through internal mechanisms. Analysts note that the controversy reflects wider tensions within Indonesia about how to balance religious solidarity with global engagement.
The situation has also sparked renewed discussion about NU’s role in shaping national and international discourse. As one of the most influential religious organizations in Indonesia, NU wields significant social and political influence. Decisions by its leadership often carry symbolic weight, particularly regarding issues related to Muslim identity and global conflicts.
Whether the calls for resignation will result in leadership changes remains uncertain. NU’s internal council is expected to deliberate on the matter, and some members have called for mediation rather than immediate removal.
The controversy underscores the deep emotional resonance of the Israel-Palestine issue in Indonesia and the challenges faced by religious leaders navigating global dialogue while maintaining the trust of their constituencies. As discussions continue, NU’s response will likely have lasting implications for its internal cohesion and public perception.