TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Headquarters stated its respect for input from various parties regarding the handling of the conflict in Papua. Meanwhile, the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) is urging TNI to implement a ceasefire in response to the escalating conflict in the Land of the Cenderawasih.
He stated that the tasks of the state defense institution are carried out in accordance with the constitutional mandate and regulations. This includes, he said, compliance with the state's policies, especially in safeguarding sovereignty, maintaining national unity, and protecting the people.
"In the implementation of duties, TNI always prioritizes professionalism by acting in a measured and proportional manner," said Nas when contacted on Wednesday, July 8, 2026.
The one-star general explained that TNI prioritizes protecting the civilian population in Papua when carrying out its defense duties. This protection, he said, is carried out through coordination and synergy with all stakeholders.
Additionally, Nas stated that TNI is taking steps to increase its personnel in Indonesia's easternmost region. He said that this step is taken based on an evaluation of the situation and security needs in the field.
"The goal of adding personnel in Papua is to strengthen security, maintain security stability, and provide protection to the people," he said.
Previously, the Chairperson of Komnas HAM, Anis Hidayah, urged the government and armed groups in Papua to cease armed conflict. Komnas HAM is pushing for a ceasefire amidst the increasingly heated situation in Papua, which has again claimed lives.
"Komnas HAM urges the state to take serious steps to stop all forms of armed conflict, including a ceasefire, where civilian residents have been the most vulnerable victims in every ceasefire that has occurred in Papua," said Anis on Monday, July 6, 2026.
The escalation of the conflict in Papua worsened after the West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) shot American pilot Nicholas F. Goselin. Nicholas was shot while flying an aircraft owned by PT AMA in the Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency, Mountainous Papua, on Thursday, July 2, 2026. The aircraft piloted by Nicholas was executed because it was suspected of carrying logistics for the TNI forces in Papua.
Eka Yudha Saputra contributed to the writing of this article
Read: Komnas HAM Urges Papua Ceasefire as Civilian Casualties Mount
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