Indonesia Prepares to Deploy Nearly 8,000 Troops to Gaza for Peacekeeping Mission

Jakarta. Indonesia has announced preparations to deploy approximately 8,000 soldiers as part of an international peace and stability mission in Gaza. Indonesia is set to become the first country preparing to send troops under the second phase of the ceasefire agreement brokered by the US last year.

The Commander of the Indonesian Army, General Maruli Simanjuntak, stated that the training for the soldiers has already begun and their main responsibilities will be related to medical aid, infrastructure construction, and reconstruction. He clarified that these troops will focus more on humanitarian and engineering support rather than combat roles.

Indonesia will be part of the international stabilization force to be formed under the mandate of the United Nations Security Council. This force is expected to ensure security in the border areas of Gaza, advance the post-war demilitarization process, and assist in the disarmament of Hamas.

Israeli President Prabowo Subianto has also joined the 'Board of Peace' announced by US President Donald Trump. The first meeting of this committee is scheduled for February 19 in Washington. It is reported that this body will oversee the formation of a new technocratic Palestinian government in Gaza, security arrangements, and the reconstruction process.

However, the final decision on when and in what modality the troops will be sent has not yet been made. Some Islamic groups in Indonesia have criticized President Prabowo Subianto's decision. They have expressed dissatisfaction with the role of the United States.

But President Prabowo stated that as the country with the world's largest Muslim population, it is Indonesia's responsibility to contribute to bringing stability to Gaza. He ultimately emphasized that a two-state solution is the basis for regional peace, linking to "https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgjwpx9j2do"here.