In a significant development that underscores the evolving geopolitical landscape, Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim nation, is on the cusp of normalizing relations with Israel. This move marks a pivotal shift from Indonesia's long-standing resistance under the administration of outgoing President Joko Widodo, who maintained a staunch support for Palestinian statehood and led Indonesia's endorsement of genocide accusations against Israel at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. Despite these historical tensions, the prospect of normalization has been facilitated by three months of clandestine negotiations, focusing on a mutual agreement that would also support Indonesia's bid to join the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

The discussions have been shrouded in secrecy but are rooted in a strategic exchange: Israel's backing for Indonesia's inclusion in the OECD in return for diplomatic normalization. This quid pro quo was hinted at in a letter from OECD Secretary-General Matthias Cormann to Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, highlighting the OECD's condition that all member states must maintain diplomatic relations with each other. Cormann's correspondence outlined a unanimous agreement requirement for Indonesia's membership, effectively placing Israel in a position to influence the decision.

BREAKING:

Israel and Indonesia have reached a normalization agreement, contingent on Israeli endorsement of Indonesia's entry into the OECD.

Via @TimesofIsrael pic.twitter.com/xp0AU75ne1

— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) April 11, 2024

This diplomatic maneuvering represents a convergence of economic ambitions and political pragmatism. Indonesia, by moving towards normalization with Israel, not only aims to enhance its international stature but also to access the economic benefits associated with OECD membership. For Israel, this development signifies a potential breakthrough in its relations with the Muslim world, building on the momentum of the Abraham Accords and challenging the status quo of Middle Eastern diplomacy.

Foreign Minister Katz's response to Cormann's letter reflects optimism for a transformative shift in Indonesia-Israel relations, envisioning an end to discriminatory policies and the establishment of full diplomatic ties. This anticipated change is grounded in the explicit precondition set by the OECD: the establishment of diplomatic relations with all its members, including Israel, as a non-negotiable criterion for Indonesia's accession.

Someone is not happy about Indonesia-Israel relations https://t.co/4hN4O2bqaT

— Lahav Harkov 🎗️ (@LahavHarkov) April 11, 2024

The backdrop to these negotiations was the planned announcement of diplomatic relations in October 2023, disrupted by regional instability following the Hamas invasion on October 7. The previous momentum towards normalization, driven by then Foreign Minister Eli Cohen's efforts and the broader trend of Muslim-majority countries engaging with Israel, underscores the complex interplay of regional politics and the pursuit of economic and diplomatic advancement.

Israel love from our friends in Indonesia! 🇮🇱🇮🇩 pic.twitter.com/S29Hqu2Wkt

— Shurat HaDin - שורת הדין (@ShuratHaDin) August 18, 2023

This potential rapprochement between Indonesia and Israel represents not just a diplomatic thaw but a strategic alignment with far-reaching implications for international relations, regional stability, and the global economic landscape.