Indonesia to Deploy 8,000 Troops to Gaza

Indonesia has announced plans to deploy 8,000 soldiers to Gaza, becoming the first country to take concrete action under the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement.

The deployment was confirmed by General Maruli Simanjuntak, Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, who said preparations and training for the troops are already underway.

According to Gen. Simanjuntak, the Indonesian forces will focus primarily on medical assistance and reconstruction work, rather than combat operations, as Gaza begins a fragile post-war recovery.

Focus on Humanitarian and Reconstruction Support

Indonesian troops are expected to play a key role in rebuilding damaged infrastructure, supporting healthcare services, and assisting civilians affected by months of conflict. The mission aligns with Indonesia’s long-standing diplomatic stance in support of the Palestinian people.

While the exact deployment date has not yet been announced, officials confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto has formally approved the decision, signaling Indonesia’s readiness to contribute to regional stability.

Indonesia Joins the Board of Peace

The announcement follows Indonesia’s recent inclusion in the Board of Peace, an international body established by U.S. President Donald Trump to oversee ceasefire implementation in Gaza and address global conflicts.

The first Board of Peace meeting is scheduled for February 19, 2026, in Washington, where discussions will focus on:

The formation of a new Palestinian administration in Gaza
Post-war reconstruction strategies
Long-term security and peace mechanisms

Indonesia’s early commitment has been viewed by analysts as a signal of strong diplomatic engagement and leadership within the Muslim world.

President Prabowo: Indonesia Has a Moral Responsibility

President Prabowo Subianto emphasized that Indonesia’s role is rooted in both humanitarian principles and religious solidarity.

“As the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, Indonesia has a responsibility to contribute to peace and stability in Gaza,” he said.

He added that Indonesia’s involvement is aimed at protecting civilians and supporting recovery, not escalating tensions.

Other Muslim Countries Consider Similar Deployments

Other Muslim-majority nations, including Türkiye and Pakistan, have also expressed intentions to deploy troops to Gaza. However, both countries stressed that their forces would operate strictly as peacekeeping units, under international frameworks.

Observers note that Indonesia’s decision could encourage broader international participation in Gaza’s stabilization and reconstruction phase.