Indonesia Prepares to Deploy Troops to Gaza Under Trump's Middle East Plan
Indonesia is preparing to deploy up to 8,000 soldiers to Gaza under US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan, according to announcements made by the Indonesian army chief of staff, Gen Maruli Simanjuntak. This move, which marks Indonesia as the first country to pledge a specific commitment to the international stabilisation force (ISF) planned under Trump's initiative, comes amid growing tensions and ceasefire violations in the Gaza Strip.
Background and Context
The Indonesian commitment comes in response to the ongoing political instability in Gaza, with the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) readying a new offensive aimed at disarming Hamas by force. Despite the IDF's plans, top Hamas leader Khaled Meshal has openly rejected the idea of disarmament or foreign rule, stating that criminalizing the resistance, its weapons and those who carried it out is something we should not accept.
Key Details of the Deployment
The details of the Indonesian troop deployment, such as the arrival date and location, are still under negotiation. However, the troops are being prepared for potential deployment as peacemakers, in what would be the first outside force in Gaza since 1967. This move has been met with strong support in Pakistan, with polls indicating readiness to support the Gaza peacekeeping mission under a Muslim alliance and UN approval framework.
Implications and Reactions
The Indonesian commitment to the ISF is a significant development under President Trump's Middle East plan. The potential international force to stabilize Gaza could total up to 20,000 soldiers, including the Indonesian troops. Despite this, the New York Times reports that Israel is unlikely to withdraw its troops from the enclave before Hamas and other militant groups lay down their arms.
The situation is further complicated by over 1,600 ceasefire violations by Israel reported in the Gaza Strip since October 10, resulting in significant casualties. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the proposed peacekeeping force and the potential for escalating conflict.
Current Status
The ongoing conflict in Gaza, with the opening of the Rafah land crossing and resistance from Hamas, marks a tumultuous backdrop for the planned deployment of Indonesian troops. As the details of the deployment continue to be negotiated, the international community watches closely to see how this development will impact the intricate dynamics of the Middle East peace process under the Trump administration.