Indonesian prosecutors have appealed a 30-month sentence handed down to militant cleric Abu Bakar Bashir for conspiracy in the 2002 Bali bombings – a move likely to please Australia and the US, which are hoping for a longer sentence against the preacher.

The Indonesian cleric accused of heading the al-Qaida-linked terror group behind the 2002 Bali bombings proclaimed his innocence as he went on trial today, while prosecutors alleged he spurred followers in “the waging of war” against America and its allies.