Indonesia Plans 8,000 Troops for Gaza Peace Mission

Indonesia is preparing to deploy up to 8,000 soldiers to the Gaza Strip as part of a proposed multinational peacekeeping mission under a United Nations-backed framework. The move follows discussions around an “International Stabilisation Force” (ISF) envisioned to support a phased peace process in the conflict-hit enclave.

Scale and Structure of Proposed Deployment

A spokesperson for President Prabowo Subianto confirmed that Indonesia is ready to contribute around 8,000 personnel to a force expected to total nearly 20,000 troops. However, operational details such as deployment zones, mandate scope and timelines have not yet been finalised.

The multinational force is proposed under a UN-approved plan supported by US President Donald Trump. The initiative includes oversight by a body referred to as the “Board of Peace”, which is expected to convene its first meeting on February 19.

Role of Indonesian Forces

Indonesia’s army chief, General Maruli Simanjuntak, indicated that preparatory training has already begun. The troops are expected to focus primarily on medical assistance and engineering support rather than combat roles. This aligns with Jakarta’s stated preference for humanitarian and stabilisation contributions.

The defence ministry clarified that reports suggesting Indonesian troops would be stationed specifically in Rafah or Khan Younis are premature. Officials emphasised that deployment areas and final troop strength will be determined only after international coordination and formal mandate clarity.

Broader Multinational Context

Indonesia is not the only country considering participation. Pakistan and Turkey are reportedly evaluating contributions to the ISF. Turkey has indicated that its forces would strictly serve in peacekeeping roles and would not be involved in any disarmament operations concerning Hamas.

The proposed ISF aims to assume administrative and stabilisation responsibilities in Gaza during a transitional phase of the peace process, though operational specifics remain under negotiation at diplomatic levels.

Important Facts for Exams

• UN peacekeeping missions operate under mandates approved by the UN Security Council.
• Indonesia is among the largest troop-contributing countries to UN peacekeeping operations globally.
• Gaza is part of the Palestinian territories located along the eastern Mediterranean coast.
• Peacekeeping roles often include medical aid, engineering works and civilian protection.

Diplomatic and Strategic Implications

Indonesia’s willingness to deploy a significant contingent reflects its active engagement in multilateral peace efforts and its longstanding support for Palestinian statehood. The final contours of the mission will depend on UN authorisation, regional consensus and security guarantees on the ground. The proposed deployment underscores the evolving international approach to stabilisation in Gaza amid ongoing geopolitical sensitivities.