Why is Indonesia sending thousands of troops into Gaza?
Deutsche Welle
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Indonesia is making headlines by planning to send up to 8,000 troops to Gaza as part of a US-backed peace initiative known as the "Board of Peace." This move, which has yet to be finalized by President Prabowo Subianto, marks a significant and politically risky decision for Indonesia, especially since it does not maintain official relations with Israel. The deployment would make Indonesia one of the largest contributors to a peacekeeping force in Gaza, a conflict-ridden region where over 80% of buildings have been destroyed. While some view this as a neutral and positive step given Indonesia's support for Palestinian statehood and its status as the world's most populous Muslim country, others remain skeptical. Critics argue that the initiative could be linked to US trade interests or Netanyahu's agenda, with protests erupting in Jakarta over concerns about Israel's influence.
The Board of Peace, chaired by former US President Donald Trump, aims to facilitate a peace plan approved by the UN Security Council last November. Indonesia's announcement has sparked controversy domestically, with some questioning its motives. Hikmahanto Juwana, a professor of international law, noted that public sentiment is mixed, with many seeing the Board of Peace as a tool for US and Israeli interests. Meanwhile, observers highlight that Israel's silence on Indonesia's proposed involvement suggests a degree of acceptance, unlike its opposition to Turkey's potential participation in similar efforts.
Indonesia's move could set a precedent for other non
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/19/2026