Indonesia readies up to 8,000 troops for Gaza peacekeeping force

Indonesia has begun training up to 8,000 soldiers to serve in an international peacekeeping force for Gaza, and many Indonesians are skeptical because the force’s mandate and potential costs remain unclear.

Indonesia has begun training a contingent of soldiers it says could total up to 8,000 to serve in an international peacekeeping force in Gaza. The commitment is presented as part of a U.S.-led postwar plan and would be Indonesia’s first firm pledge to that effort. Indonesia has prior experience as a top contributor to U.N. peacekeeping and has provided humanitarian aid to Gaza, including funding a hospital. Many Indonesians and analysts are skeptical because details about the force’s role, mandate and funding remain unclear. Key facts: - Training has started and Indonesian army officials say they now envision sending between 5,000 and 8,000 personnel, including engineering and medical units. - Indonesia has a history of contributing to U.N. peacekeeping missions and has provided humanitarian assistance to Gaza. - The International Security Force (ISF) and the proposed Board of Peace would operate outside the U.N., and the ISF’s mandate and rules of engagement have not been clearly defined. - A draft charter referenced a possible $1 billion payment for a permanent place on the Board of Peace, raising questions about who would cover costs for troops. - Domestic responses include protests outside the U.S. Embassy and an online petition opposing participation that has gathered more than 9,000 signatures. Summary: The announcement has intensified domestic debate about Indonesia’s role and the transparency of the proposed force’s mission and financing. The inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace is scheduled next week in Washington, where other countries are expected to make announcements and President Prabowo Subianto plans to attend.