In recent developments, a coalition of nations including Indonesia, Morocco, and Kazakhstan has pledged to send troops to Gaza under the new International Stabilization Force (ISF), emphasizing a commitment to peace and humanitarian assistance in a region long impacted by conflict. This initiative, spearheaded by U.S. Army General Jasper Jeffers, is framed as a vital step toward restoring stability and security in the war-torn Palestinian territory, amid ongoing challenges and concerns regarding the humanitarian crisis facing its residents.
Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania have committed to sending troops to Gaza, as stated by U.S. Army General Jasper Jeffers, the commander of the newly established International Stabilization Force (ISF). This coalition emerged during a recent meeting of U.S. President Donald Trump’s so-called Board of Peace, where it was confirmed that Indonesia would assume a pivotal role as deputy commander of the force.
General Jeffers expressed optimism regarding these initial commitments, recognizing them as essential to restoring security in Gaza. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced that his country would contribute up to 8,000 personnel to assist in what he termed a crucial mission to support the war-torn region, where the ongoing conflict has had a staggering humanitarian toll.
Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed his country’s readiness to send an unspecified number of troops, including medical units, underscoring a shared commitment to peace. Additionally, Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita indicated that Moroccan police officers would also be deployed to help maintain order.
Albania has pledged to send troops as well, while neighboring Egypt and Jordan have offered to contribute by training police officers for the efforts in Gaza. Indonesia’s involvement aims to uphold international law and provide humanitarian and health assistance, while focusing on the reconstruction of the infrastructure in Palestine.
In a statement, Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that its troops would not engage in combat operations but would instead focus on civilian protection and humanitarian aid. Their mandate encompasses training and bolstering the capacity of the Palestinian police, which is viewed as a positive measure amid ongoing criticisms regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Notable concerns have been raised by human rights advocates. The head of Amnesty International Indonesia, Usman Hamid, cautioned that Indonesia’s participation could pose risks regarding adherence to international law, particularly given the complex dynamics of the region. He highlighted the possibility that the peace initiative might inadvertently support violations of humanitarian law due to the inclusion of certain actors in the Board of Peace.
Despite these concerns, Indonesia’s commitment to a peaceful resolution is in line with its historical stance of advocating for the rights and welfare of the Palestinian people. Palestinians themselves have voiced skepticism about the Board of Peace’s effectiveness, fearing that it may reinforce Israel’s occupation of the Gaza Strip, as tensions persist despite a declared ceasefire.
The Gaza Stabilization Force represents a distinct approach compared to traditional peacekeeping initiatives, which are typically coordinated by organizations such as the United Nations or the African Union. In contrast, Indonesia, along with other nations, has been a significant contributor to the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) since its inception in 1978, showcasing ongoing international efforts to maintain peace and security in volatile regions.
As these nations come together to support civilian life in Gaza, the world is watching closely to see how this newly formed coalition will navigate the complexities of bringing a lasting peace to a region deeply scarred by conflict. #MiddleEastNews #PoliticsNews