Jakarta, Indonesia – The Indonesian military announced Sunday it has prepared up to 8,000 personnel for potential deployment to Gaza as part of a peacekeeping mission, a move that represents the first firm commitment of troops to the security effort envisioned under U.S. President Donald Trump’s postwar reconstruction plan for the region.
Army spokesperson Brig. Gen. Donny Pramono told the Associated Press that the proposed troop structure is finalized and a timeline for deployment has been established, though formal government approval is still pending. “In principle, we are ready to be assigned anywhere,” Pramono stated. Approximately 1,000 personnel are expected to be ready as an advance team by April, with the remainder prepared by June, according to Pramono.
The readiness does not guarantee immediate departure, Pramono emphasized, noting that a political decision and the establishment of international mechanisms are still required. Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry has consistently stated that any Indonesian involvement in Gaza will be strictly humanitarian in nature.
Indonesia’s proposed contribution will focus on civilian protection, medical services, and reconstruction efforts, with troops explicitly barred from participating in combat operations or actions that could lead to direct confrontation with armed groups, Pramono confirmed. This stance aligns with previous statements from the Indonesian government regarding the scope of its potential role in Gaza.
According to reports, Indonesia would be the first nation to formally commit troops to the security mission outlined in Trump’s Board of Peace initiative. The initiative aims to stabilize Gaza following a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that has held since October 11, after two years of conflict.
The Indonesian National Armed Forces, known as TNI, finalized decisions regarding the mission during a February 12 meeting. Throughout February, troops will undergo health checks and complete necessary paperwork, followed by a force readiness review at the end of the month.
While preparations are underway, the deployment remains contingent on a final decision from the Indonesian government and the development of a broader international framework for the peacekeeping operation.
