Indonesia’s largest Islamic organization, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), has demanded the resignation of its chairman, Yahya Cholil Staquf, following his invitation of an American scholar with a pro-Israel stance to an internal NU event earlier this year. The development has sparked controversy within the organization, which boasts approximately 100 million members and affiliates, making it the world’s largest Islamic body.

The Controversial Invitation

The leadership of NU reportedly gave Staquf three days to resign voluntarily or face removal from his position, citing two primary concerns: his decision to invite Peter Berkowitz, a former US State Department official, and alleged financial mismanagement within the organization.

Berkowitz, known for his support of Israel and his writings defending Israeli policies in Gaza, attended an internal NU training event in August 2025. His public commentary has included statements denying genocide claims in Palestinian territories and asserting that recognition of a Palestinian state undermines peace efforts.

NU official Najib Azca confirmed that the calls for resignation were directly tied to the controversial invitation. Berkowitz, in his own writings, praised Staquf and the organization during his visit, but the event drew strong criticism from members of NU and the broader Indonesian Muslim community.

Staquf Responds

Chairman Staquf has apologized for the invitation, describing it as an oversight due to insufficient background checks on Berkowitz. He has not provided additional public commentary as NU deliberates on the issue.

In the meantime, NU Secretary-General Yusuf Saifullah has urged members to remain calm, warning against spreading misinformation that could escalate tensions. Saifullah emphasized that the matter is being handled internally according to NU’s governance procedures and that members should “maintain a conducive spirit” while senior officials review the situation.

Indonesia’s Political and Religious Context

Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, has consistently condemned Israeli military actions in Gaza and supports a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The country has no diplomatic relations with Israel, making Berkowitz’s invitation particularly sensitive.

The controversy highlights the tension between NU’s global engagements and the expectations of its domestic membership. Staquf has served as chairman since 2021, navigating both Indonesia’s complex religious landscape and the organization’s growing influence in international Islamic and political affairs.

Implications for NU Leadership

The decision to invite a pro-Israel speaker has triggered significant debate within NU, raising questions about leadership accountability and the organization’s role in global discourse. As the three-day deadline approaches, the organization’s handling of Staquf’s position may set a precedent for how NU balances international engagement with domestic religious and political sensitivities.