Indonesia’s Potential Troop Commitment to Gaza Peacekeeping Mission
On Tuesday, Indonesian Army Chief of Staff Gen. Marli Simanjuntak announced that the country is considering sending between 5,000 and 8,000 soldiers to the International Stability Force (ISF) in Gaza. This marks a significant step, as it represents the military’s first tangible involvement in the second phase of President Donald Trump’s peace initiative.
Simanjuntak mentioned that, “We have started training potential peacemakers, so we are preparing such engineering and health forces.” However, he stressed that discussions are ongoing, and the exact number of troops remains uncertain at this time.
He elaborated, “We are awaiting guidance from those overseeing the mission in Gaza. Once we receive coordination from them, the Indonesian National Armed Forces will determine the types of personnel needed and prepare accordingly.”
Secretary of State Prasetyo Hadi suggested that participation could “likely reach 8,000 personnel,” but Deputy Defense Minister Donny Emawan Taufant, after discussions with lawmakers, indicated the starting figure might be closer to about 600 troops.
Another defense official, Tanjo Budi Levita, highlighted that a final decision on troop deployment is expected by late February, contingent upon President Prabowo Subianto’s approval of the participation document. “By the end of the month, we should be able to clarify how many soldiers we will send,” Levita noted, stating that various options for involvement in Gaza are still under consideration.
Additionally, Mr. Levita pointed out that the ISF units will comprise personnel experienced in operating in conflict situations, referencing prior engagements such as those in UNIFIL in Lebanon.
Meanwhile, Indonesian Foreign Ministry spokesman Vahad Nabil Ahmad Mrachela underscored that regardless of the troop numbers, the focus will remain on humanitarian efforts and not on disarming groups like Hamas. “We are carefully considering our role in Gaza, ensuring it aligns with our principles of peacekeeping,” he explained.
Mr. Murachela acknowledged that no final decisions had yet been made regarding specifics like troop numbers or activities. Foreign Minister Sugi Ono previously stated that any deployment would solely be a “temporary measure” leading toward a full Palestinian state.
A recent report by Israeli public broadcaster KAN indicated that preparations for housing Indonesian soldiers in Gaza have already begun, signaling that Indonesia could be among the first foreign military contingents to arrive.
Although KAN did not specify a deployment timeline, it noted that structures for housing troops between Rafah and Khan Yunis are reportedly nearing completion. Discussions are already underway with Jakarta regarding logistics for troop transport and initial deployment.
President Prabowo had previously announced at the UN General Assembly in September that Indonesia was ready to send “20,000 or more” troops to help stabilize the region, a move aimed at enhancing Indonesia’s global standing.
Additionally, Prabowo is scheduled to meet with President Trump on February 19 as part of the peace commission that will oversee the implementation of Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan.
Amidst differing views among Indonesian officials, some reports suggest public opinion is largely in favor of establishing a Palestinian state without delay. This has led to discussions between the president and Islamic leaders, aiming to build support for the peace council as a pathway to resolution.
In an editorial dated January 31, Prabowo outlined a plan to contribute to the ISF while serving on the Peace Council, which he hopes will enable Indonesia to play a more influential role in Gaza compared to existing platforms like the United Nations.
However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential for Indonesia to inadvertently support divisive measures that undermine global consensus or lead to an unsustainable military presence in Gaza.
