Indonesia Positions Itself in Gaza Stabilization Push

WASHINGTON, Investortrust.id — Indonesia’s foreign minister said Friday, Feb 20, 2026 in Washington that Palestinian leaders understand Jakarta’s role in the proposed Gaza stabilization mission, as the government prepares to deploy up to 8,000 personnel under a multinational mandate focused on civilian protection rather than combat.

The clarification comes as Indonesia deepens its involvement in the International Stabilization Force, positioning itself as both a humanitarian actor and a security stakeholder in the fragile post-conflict environment.

Foreign Minister Sugiono said Palestinian representatives had attended a recent meeting of the Board of Peace and were fully briefed on Indonesia’s mandate within the International Stabilization Force.

“Palestine was present. They already know and understand,” he told reporters.

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Indonesia has communicated what it calls its national caveat, a formal limitation on troop engagement that excludes offensive military operations or disarmament activities.

“Our national caveat has been conveyed, so everything is clear,” Sugiono said.

Under the framework discussed, Indonesian forces would concentrate on stabilizing civilian areas, securing public facilities and facilitating humanitarian access rather than participating in armed enforcement actions.

The stabilization blueprint envisions a phased approach beginning with a ceasefire, followed by the creation of a secure and stable environment before broader reconstruction can proceed.

Sugiono said Palestinian officials stressed that security is the essential first step before any meaningful rebuilding of Gaza Strip can begin.

President Prabowo Subianto has signaled readiness to send up to 8,000 selected personnel, potentially more, depending on sectoral deployment plans within the multinational force.

The total combined strength of the mission could reach around 20,000 personnel from participating nations, divided into operational sectors across Gaza.

Sugiono emphasized that Indonesia’s participation is not linked to bilateral diplomacy with any particular party but is framed as a contribution under an international peace mandate.

“This is a peacekeeping mandate. The core task is to maintain stability,” he said.

He added that Indonesia’s appointment as deputy operations commander within the force reflects recognition of its long-standing record in global peacekeeping missions.

In parallel, Sugiono dismissed speculation that Indonesia must contribute $1 billion to join the Board of Peace, saying financial pledges are voluntary and separate from membership.

“This is not a membership fee. We are already a member, and payment is not required,” he said.

Nine countries have pledged a combined $7 billion for Gaza-related efforts, but Indonesia’s contribution will come primarily in the form of personnel rather than funding.

“Some contribute money, others contribute troops,” Sugiono said.

Indonesia’s move places Southeast Asia’s largest economy at the center of a high-stakes diplomatic effort, balancing domestic sensitivities, regional leadership ambitions and its long-standing support for Palestinian statehood.