Indonesia to Lead Gaza Stabilization Force Under U.S. Command
Following a summit in Washington D.C., Indonesia has accepted a key leadership role in the International Stabilization Force (ISF) for Gaza, signaling a significant commitment to the region’s peace process. The move comes despite domestic debate regarding Indonesia’s foreign policy stance and potential implications for its sovereignty.
Indonesia Appointed Deputy Commander
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto confirmed that Indonesia will serve as the Deputy Commander of the ISF, a multinational force tasked with stabilizing Gaza. “Yes, they asked us to be the deputy commander,” Prabowo stated after attending the Board of Peace (BoP) Summit on February 19, 2026. “We will select the best personnel. This vision of real peace will be achieved. There will be obstacles, but we will win.”
Operational Structure: Five Sectors, Five Brigades
The ISF, under the command of U.S. Major General Jasper Jeffers, will operate through a phased deployment, dividing the Gaza Strip into five operational sectors:
- Rafah
- Khan Yunis
- Deir el-Balah
- Gaza City
- Northern Gaza
Each sector will be assigned one ISF brigade. As Deputy Commander, Indonesia will assist General Jeffers in managing the 20,000-strong force and coordinating operations across the five brigades.
Coalition of Nations
The initial coalition of nations contributing military personnel to the ISF includes Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania. Egypt and Jordan will focus on training the local Palestinian police force. The long-term goal is to establish a force of 12,000 local police and 20,000 ISF troops.
Major General Jasper Jeffers III: A Profile
U.S. Major General Jasper Jeffers III brings extensive experience in Middle East crisis management to the role. His career highlights include:
- Commissioned in 1996, with service in the 75th Ranger Regiment and participation in the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
- Command of Airborne, Stryker, and Special Operations units in multiple combat zones.
- Service as Deputy Director for Special Operations and Counter-Terrorism on the Joint Staff.
- Leadership of a brigade in Iraq and Syria under Operation Inherent Resolve, reportedly playing a key role in the operation that led to the death of ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.
- Chairing the implementation of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire in late 2024.
Domestic Debate and Concerns
While President Trump publicly praised Prabowo’s commitment, the decision to accept the Deputy Commander position has sparked debate in Indonesia. Some analysts, like Simon Hutagalung of the Indonesian Foreign Ministry, have expressed concern that Indonesia risks being perceived as a “subcontractor” for foreign interests, potentially deviating from its “Free and Active” foreign policy doctrine. Eurasia Review reported that Indonesia is preparing to deploy approximately 8,000 troops to Gaza.
Jakarta’s Perspective and Next Steps
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that Palestinian authorities have approved Indonesia’s involvement in the ISF. However, details regarding the deployment schedule, operational mandate, and length of assignment have not yet been announced by the Indonesian National Police Tempo.co. President Prabowo remains optimistic, stating, “We are very optimistic with President Trump’s leadership. We understand there will be many obstacles, but we will win.”
This mission represents a significant test for the Prabowo presidency, balancing a commitment to peace with concerns about national sovereignty.