Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) as a Non-State Actor Mediator: A New Approach to Israeli-Palestinian Peace

Abstract

The involvement of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) as a non-state actor in seeking peace between Israel and Palestine represents a significant contribution to multi-track diplomacy. As a religious-based organization, NU offers a distinctive approach compared to traditional state actors in the conflict. Although tensions remain high between Israel and Palestine, NU's consistent engagement in peace efforts highlights the potential for religious methodologies to provide innovative strategies for conflict mediation. This paper explores the extent of NU's role as one of Indonesia's largest Islamic organizations mediating the Israel-Palestine peace process. It examines how NU leverages its moderate religious traditions, principles, interfaith dialogue experience, and international network to offer a novel, inclusive solution to the ongoing conflict. Utilizing a qualitative approach with a literature review method, this study investigates NU's contribution as a non-state actor, drawing from document analyses, expert opinions, and limited direct reviews of NU's activities. The findings suggest that the involvement of non-state actors like NU can implement a new, practical approach to the peace efforts between Israel and Palestine, potentially facilitating a more inclusive and comprehensive resolution.