Arabic version: إندونيسيا تخطط لنشر قوات إلى غزة وتواجه انتقادات داخلية
Indonesia is preparing to send 1,000 soldiers to Gaza within weeks, the first contingent of some 8,000 personnel that Jakarta has pledged to deploy to the Palestinian territory as part of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) under United States President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace. Indonesian army spokesperson Brigadier General Donny Pramono told news media the first troops are preparing to reach the enclave by April 2026, and the majority will be on the ground in Gaza by June.
However, the decision has sparked concerns among many Indonesians regarding the role their military will play in the ongoing conflict. Critics express fears that without oversight from the United Nations, Indonesian forces could be used as tools by the U.S.—Israel’s primary ally—to exert control over Palestinians in Gaza. Shofwan Al Banna Choiruzzad, an associate professor at the University of Indonesia, voiced apprehensions that Indonesia might be utilized as a buffer to manage the Palestinian population rather than genuinely support their rights.
Indonesia, known for its significant support of the Palestinian cause and its lack of diplomatic relations with Israel, is facing pressure to clarify its operational role in Gaza. Critics argue that the mission risks compromising Indonesia’s long-standing commitment to a two-state solution. President Prabowo Subianto may soon confront challenging questions regarding the Board of Peace’s objectives and its implications for Palestinian sovereignty.
Despite these concerns, Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that the troops’ mission is solely to support Palestine’s recovery and independence. Alongside military deployment, Indonesia plans to provide humanitarian assistance, including hospital ships. Yet, observers suggest that Prabowo’s involvement in the Board of Peace is more about elevating Indonesia’s global standing than a direct commitment to the Palestinian cause.
The Board of Peace, which includes prominent figures such as Trump and Jared Kushner, has been criticized for its approach to Gaza, which some describe as colonial in nature. Analysts worry that the plan does not prioritize Palestinian voices and rights, viewing the inhabitants instead as subjects to be controlled. As the deployment date approaches, Indonesia’s actions will be closely scrutinized both domestically and internationally.
According to Al Jazeera, President Prabowo’s leadership style and aspirations for a significant legacy may also influence Indonesia’s role in this complex geopolitical landscape.
