JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) — Indonesia has initiated training for a contingent of up to 8,000 soldiers intended for deployment as part of an international peacekeeping force in Gaza. This commitment marks Indonesia's first significant involvement in U.S. President Donald Trump's postwar reconstruction plan. With a history of contributing to United Nations peacekeeping missions, including in Lebanon, Indonesia is also known for its humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza, such as funding medical facilities.
However, there is significant skepticism among Indonesians regarding President Prabowo Subianto's plans to join the proposed Board of Peace, which includes participation in the International Security Force (ISF). Critics express concerns that Indonesia's involvement may align too closely with Trump’s objectives amid ongoing trade negotiations between the two nations. “We need to be careful to ensure that our military personnel are not supporting the Israeli military forces,” stated Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat, a Middle East expert, emphasizing the need for caution in distinguishing allies from adversaries.
The specific mandate of the ISF remains ambiguous, generating questions about the operational details and funding sources. The ceasefire agreement suggests that the ISF will support vetted Palestinian police and collaborate with Israel and Egypt to secure border areas. Currently, Indonesian peacekeeping troops receive compensation from the U.N., but there are concerns that Indonesia will bear the costs of its forces in Gaza and may face a potential $1 billion obligation for permanent membership on the Board of Peace, as unconfirmed by a draft charter.
As the world's most populous Muslim-majority nation, Indonesia advocates for a two-state solution in the Middle East and justifies participation in the Board of Peace as a means to defend Palestinian interests. Officials argue that Indonesia's engagement is essential for ensuring peace negotiations remain focused on Palestinian rights. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang stated the country aims to maintain the interests of Palestine at heart throughout the peace process.
However, some local media outlets criticize this stance, suggesting that the likelihood of establishing an independent Palestinian state may take decades, potentially leading Indonesia to expend considerable resources with little gain. Abdul Khalik from the Jakarta Post highlighted the risk of investing $1 billion with no meaningful resolution and warned of potential financial, diplomatic, and political fallout if Indonesia later withdraws.
Many perceive Trump as overstepping the U.N. with the proposed Board of Peace, initially intended as a select group of global leaders to steer the future of Gaza. Yet, Trump has expanded this vision to act as mediators in worldwide conflicts, circumventing the U.N.’s authority. Prabowo quickly accepted an invitation to join the Board and pledged 20,000 troops during a speech at the United Nations General Assembly.
Opposition to Indonesia's participation in the Board of Peace has emerged among scholars and activists, who question the legitimacy of a peace-promoting body led by Trump, citing his history of conflicting actions regarding peace. An online petition urging Indonesia to withdraw has garnered over 9,000 signatures, reflecting public disapproval of the association with the controversial board. The petition stresses the moral and structural legitimacy challenges faced by the Board of Peace.
Despite domestic dissent, Indonesia's military continues preparations for troop deployment, with Army Chief of Staff Gen. Maruli Simanjuntak confirming that training has commenced without clear directives on personnel types. Currently, the military anticipates sending between 5,000 to 8,000 troops, including engineering and medical units typical of peacekeeping missions.
On a regional level, Indonesia's potential role in Gaza is viewed positively; analysts describe the country as an "honest and acceptable broker” due to its non-threatening relationship with Israel and Muslim identity that resonates well in the Arab world. Existing diplomatic tensions with Israel are counterbalanced by Indonesia's moderate stance compared to other Muslim nations.
As attention turns to the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington, where other nations are expected to declare troop contributions, Prabowo plans to attend in person, coinciding with negotiations for a new trade deal. However, it is unclear if public sentiment will significantly influence Indonesia's decision to join the Board of Peace.
