Indonesia Prepares Troops for Gaza Deployment Amidst Shifting Foreign Policy
Jakarta has begun training a contingent of up to 8,000 soldiers for potential deployment as part of the Gaza International Stabilisation Force (ISF), marking a significant shift in Indonesia’s longstanding foreign policy. This move, occurring under President Prabowo Subianto’s government, is linked to the U.S.-led Board of Peace (BoP) initiative and raises questions about Indonesia’s diplomatic independence.
Indonesia’s Commitment to the Gaza Stabilisation Force
Indonesia is preparing to deploy between 5,000 and 8,000 troops to Gaza as part of a proposed multinational force, authorized by a UN Security Council resolution in November 2025 . The ISF is outlined in the Gaza peace plan and is intended to help stabilize the region following conflict. This represents Indonesia’s first firm commitment to a Gaza peacekeeping force .
The Board of Peace and Shifting Alliances
The decision to participate in the BoP framework, conceived and driven by former U.S. President Donald Trump, signals a departure from Indonesia’s traditionally non-aligned foreign policy . The involvement with a single, polarizing political figure raises concerns about whether Indonesia is prioritizing its national interests and diplomatic credibility.
Mandate and Operational Focus
The Indonesian military’s deployment will be strictly for humanitarian purposes, focusing on protecting civilians, providing medical and humanitarian assistance, reconstruction efforts, and training Palestinian police forces . Indonesia has clarified that its troops will not be involved in combat operations. The ISF’s mandate includes securing border areas, protecting civilians, and facilitating humanitarian aid corridors.
Demilitarization and Potential Risks
A key aspect of the ISF’s mission is the demilitarization of Gaza, including destroying military infrastructure and disarming Hamas . This task presents significant risks to Indonesian troops, potentially placing them in a non-neutral position and exposing them to conflict with Hamas, particularly in areas with extensive underground tunnels like Rafah and Khan Younis . Experts have warned that Indonesian soldiers could be considered hostile forces by Hamas .
Coordination with Israel and Egypt
Under the UN Security Council resolution authorizing the ISF, countries sending troops, including Indonesia, will cooperate and consult closely with Israel and Egypt .
Financial Considerations
The cost of deploying and maintaining Indonesian troops in Gaza is a significant consideration. Indonesia has not yet paid its contribution of IDR 17 trillion to the Board of Peace . Operational costs are expected to be borne by the Indonesian government and other parties supporting the Board of Peace.
Indonesia’s History of Peacekeeping
Indonesia has a long history of contributing troops to UN peacekeeping missions in various conflict zones across Africa, Asia, and Europe. Over the years, Indonesian soldiers have received praise for their service, but have also faced risks, including kidnapping and death .