Jakarta says TNI will avoid combat as 5,000 to 8,000 personnel considered
Indonesia has confirmed that any deployment of its armed forces to Gaza will be strictly humanitarian, emphasizing that its troops will not engage in combat as part of the proposed International Stabilization Force.
Humanitarian Mandate Under UN Resolution
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on Feb 14, 2026, that the Indonesian National Armed Forces will participate in the International Stabilization Force under United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803.
Jakarta emphasized that its involvement aligns with Indonesia’s independent and active foreign policy and international law. The government stressed that the deployment remains fully under national control.
No Combat Operations
The ministry clarified that Indonesian personnel will not be involved in combat operations or direct confrontations with armed groups.
Their role will focus on humanitarian tasks such as civilian protection, medical assistance, reconstruction efforts, and strengthening the capacity of Palestinian police forces.
Limited Use Of Force Under National Caveats
Indonesia outlined specific national caveats governing its participation. The use of force would be permitted only for self-defense and to maintain the mission’s mandate.
Such action would be considered a last resort and must be carried out in stages. Jakarta also pledged to withdraw from the mission if operations deviate from these conditions.
Support For Palestinian Sovereignty
Indonesia reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution and the preservation of Palestinian self-determination. The deployment will proceed only with the approval of the Palestinian Authority.
The government also pledged to reject any demographic changes or forced relocation of Palestinians during the mission.
Hamas Position On Foreign Forces
Senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan said on Feb 11 that Gaza rejects foreign guardianship. Speaking to Al Jazeera, he stated that any international force should limit its role to border duties and preventing Israeli attacks without interfering in internal governance.
Hamdan said Hamas had communicated with Jakarta, stressing that foreign forces must remain neutral and avoid actions perceived as serving Israeli interests.
Estimated Troop Numbers And Preparations
Indonesian Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak estimated that 5,000 to 8,000 personnel could be deployed, though negotiations are ongoing and no final decision has been made.
Initial preparations, including character development and health-focused training, have begun. Coordination between the Indonesian Armed Forces and national authorities continues as discussions progress.
Indonesia’s planned participation in the Gaza stabilization mission reflects a carefully calibrated approach that balances humanitarian commitment with strict operational limits. By defining clear national caveats and requiring Palestinian consent, Jakarta aims to uphold its long-standing pro-Palestinian stance while avoiding combat entanglement. For Indonesians and Singaporeans observing regional diplomacy, the deployment underscores Indonesia’s expanding role in international peacekeeping and Middle East stability efforts.
Sources: Jakarta Globe (2026) , EN Tempo (2026)
Keywords: UNSC Resolution 2803, International Stabilization Force, Maruli Simanjuntak, Palestinian Authority Approval, Two State Solution
