Full Breakdown
Indonesia Prepares to Deploy Troops to Gaza Under Trump’s Peace Plan
2/10/2026, 11:17:32 PM
Indonesian Commitment to Peacekeeping in Gaza
Indonesia has announced plans to deploy between 5,000 and 8,000 troops to Gaza as part of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) under U.S. President Donald Trump's peace plan. This commitment, articulated by Indonesian Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak, marks Indonesia as the first nation to provide a specific troop commitment to the ISF, which aims to stabilize the region following ongoing conflicts. The Indonesian troops are expected to focus on engineering and medical support, with preparations already underway.
Background of the Peace Plan
The deployment is part of a broader initiative proposed by Trump, which includes the establishment of an interim administration in Gaza to govern daily affairs and disarm Hamas, with support from a Palestinian police force being trained in Jordan and Egypt. The peace plan was first introduced in September 2025 and has since faced skepticism regarding its feasibility, particularly concerning Hamas's willingness to disarm.
Role of Indonesia in the Peace Process
President Prabowo Subianto has expressed Indonesia's intention to contribute to peace and humanitarian efforts in Gaza, emphasizing the country's role as the world's largest Muslim-majority nation. He has been invited to join Trump's "Board of Peace," which is tasked with overseeing the peace process in Gaza and potentially other conflict zones. Prabowo's participation is viewed as a diplomatic move to enhance Indonesia's global profile, although it has drawn criticism from various Islamic groups within Indonesia due to public sentiment against U.S. involvement in the region.
Criticism and Concerns
Despite the commitment, there are concerns among Indonesian observers regarding the potential for the country to become embroiled in a conflict it cannot control. Critics argue that Indonesia's involvement could risk complicity in the ongoing occupation of Gaza. The Jakarta Globe highlighted that Indonesia's participation should yield genuine influence rather than mere symbolic gestures. Furthermore, the Indonesian Foreign Minister has indicated that the country may reconsider its participation if the Board of Peace does not align with its objectives for Palestinian independence.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While the Indonesian government has confirmed preparations for troop deployment, details regarding the exact timing and operational specifics remain uncertain. Reports indicate that an area in southern Gaza, between Rafah and Khan Younis, has been designated for the Indonesian troops, but the defense ministry has denied specific claims about the deployment location. Additionally, the ISF's mandate and the role of Indonesian troops in disarming Hamas have not been clearly defined, leading to ambiguity about the mission's objectives.
What's Next
The first meeting of Trump's Board of Peace is scheduled for February 19, 2026, where further discussions regarding the peace plan and Indonesia's role are expected. As the situation evolves, Indonesia's commitment to the ISF will depend on ongoing negotiations and the broader geopolitical landscape in the region.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are just preparing ourselves in case an agreement is reached and we have to send peacekeeping forces,” — Prabowo Subianto, President of Indonesia
- “Ultimately, Indonesia’s decision to join Trump’s [board of peace] is a diplomatic gamble that is only worthwhile if it produces real influence rather than mere symbolism,” — Jakarta Globe Commentary
- “Everything is still being negotiated, and nothing is certain yet,” — Maruli Simanjuntak, Army Chief of Staff
