Indonesia to Serve as Deputy Commander of Gaza’s International Stabilization Force

Washington D.C. – Indonesia has accepted the position of deputy commander for the newly formed Gaza International Stabilization Force (ISF), as announced at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington on Thursday. The commitment comes as Gaza’s local administrative leadership outlines its own roadmap for rebuilding the enclave.

Troop Commitments and Force Composition

Major General Jasper Jeffers, commander of the ISF, revealed that five countries have formally pledged troops to the nascent security body: Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania [Reuters]. Indonesia is pledging up to 8,000 soldiers to anchor the mission, which aims to secure Gaza and lay the groundwork for lasting peace [TRT World]. The ISF is expected to eventually comprise 20,000 soldiers and 12,000 police officers [Times of Israel].

Focus on Security and Stability

Jeffers emphasized that the ISF will focus on stabilizing the situation in Gaza to allow for the functioning of a civilian government. The force’s mandate is to oversee a ceasefire and ensure security stability, rather than engage in confrontation [TRT World]. The initial deployment will focus on Rafah [Al Jazeera].

Regional Contributions

While Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania are contributing troops, Egypt and Jordan will instead concentrate on training Palestinian police forces [Reuters]. Morocco’s commitment marks the first troop pledge from an Arab country [TRT World].

Indonesia’s Commitment

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto underscored Jakarta’s commitment, pledging 8,000 “or more” troops to the stabilization mission [TRT World]. Jeffers stated, “With these first steps, we will help bring the security that Gaza needs for our future prosperity and enduring peace” [TRT World].