Indonesia to Contribute Troops to Gaza Peacekeeping Force, Reaffirming Support for Palestinian Independence

Jakarta – Indonesia is moving forward with plans to deploy up to 8,000 troops to Gaza as part of an international peacekeeping force, a commitment solidified under a US-backed peace plan initiated by President Donald Trump. This decision, however, does not signify recognition of Israel or a shift in Jakarta’s longstanding support for Palestinian statehood, Indonesian officials have affirmed.

Maintaining Indonesia’s Stance on Palestinian Independence

Deputy Foreign Minister Arrmanatha C. Nasir emphasized that Indonesia’s participation in the US-initiated Board of Peace for Gaza is aimed at actively contributing to international efforts for justice, independence, and lasting peace for the Palestinian people. Nasir made these remarks during a coordination meeting with the House of Representatives’ Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP) on February 19th.

According to Nasir, Indonesia’s involvement allows the nation to influence diplomatic processes related to Gaza while upholding its constitutional mandate to support the establishment of a Palestinian state. The Associated Press reported that preparations within the Indonesian army are already underway.

The Board of Peace and International Stabilization Force

The deployment of Indonesian troops is part of a broader US-supported plan for Gaza, approved by the United Nations Security Council last November. The plan involves the creation of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) tasked with providing security in the Gaza Strip while gradually reducing the presence of the Israel Defense Forces. The Times of Israel notes that Hamas, which currently controls a portion of Gaza, is expected to disarm as part of the agreement, though its willingness to do so remains uncertain.

Indonesia is the first country to publicly commit troops to the ISF, potentially contributing one of the largest contingents to the peacekeeping force. PBS NewsHour reports that the initial deployment will likely consist of engineering and medical units.

Constitutional Mandate and Foreign Policy Doctrine

BKSAP Chairman Syahrul Aidi Maazat stressed the importance of adhering to Indonesia’s “free and active” foreign policy doctrine, which prioritizes independence in decision-making and participation in global peace efforts. He emphasized the need to ensure that Indonesia’s involvement in international forums, including the Board of Peace, remains consistent with the Constitution and its long-standing support for Palestinian independence.

The meeting between the Foreign Ministry and the legislature also focused on strengthening coordination on foreign policy initiatives and aligning priority agendas. Officials anticipate that closer collaboration between the executive branch and parliament will help synchronize diplomatic programs and advance Indonesia’s national interests while contributing to global peace efforts.

Related News

• Why is Indonesia sending thousands of troops into Gaza? – DW
• Indonesia readies up to 8,000 troops for Gaza peacekeeping force – AP News