Indonesia is preparing to deploy up to 20,000 troops for a potential international stabilisation force (ISF) in Gaza, focusing on healthcare and reconstruction efforts, according to the Indonesian Defence Ministry. The announcement coincided with Jordan’s King Abdullah II visiting Jakarta to meet with President Prabowo Subianto, signaling regional coordination on the crisis in Gaza.

Indonesia’s Role in Gaza Stabilisation

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said on November 14, 2025, that Indonesian troops would likely be tasked with healthcare support, infrastructure rebuilding, and humanitarian aid, rather than direct combat operations.

“We are waiting for further decisions on Gaza peace action,” Sjamsoeddin told reporters.

The deployment would be part of a broader initiative outlined in US President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza plan, which envisions a long-term truce enforced by a multinational stabilisation force.

Trump’s Gaza Plan and International Coordination

Trump’s plan proposes a two-year mandate for a transitional governance body called the Board of Peace, chaired by the US, and outlines a temporary ISF to secure humanitarian aid corridors, borders, and oversee decommissioning of weapons from non-state armed groups. Hamas has not committed to demilitarisation, which remains a central challenge to the plan’s implementation.

The proposed force would collaborate with Israel, Egypt, and newly trained Palestinian police, ensuring security while facilitating humanitarian and reconstruction efforts. Washington has reportedly discussed contributions to the ISF with Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Egypt, the UAE, and Qatar, although Israel has ruled out participation from Turkey, citing the nation’s criticism of Israeli actions in Gaza over the past two years.

Regional Diplomacy and Jordan’s Role

During King Abdullah II’s state visit, discussions with President Prabowo are expected to include Indonesia’s potential contribution and broader regional coordination under the US-led plan. The Jordanian monarchy has historically played a key role in mediating Palestinian-Israeli tensions, and its involvement underscores the importance of Arab world support for Gaza stabilisation.

UN Draft Resolution and Geopolitical Challenges

The US mission to the United Nations recently circulated a draft resolution outlining the ISF’s mandate. The plan faced immediate diplomatic hurdles when Russia presented a counter-proposal to the UN Security Council. US officials warned that attempts to undermine the resolution could have “grave, tangible and entirely avoidable consequences” for Palestinians in Gaza, particularly if the October 10 ceasefire collapses.

Speaking last week, Trump expressed hope that a US-coordinated ISF could be deployed “very soon,” emphasizing urgency amid ongoing humanitarian needs.

Humanitarian Focus and Troop Deployment

The Indonesian Defence Ministry has not confirmed exact numbers or timelines for deployment, leaving decisions to President Prabowo. The ministry emphasized that the focus would be on humanitarian aid, medical support, and reconstruction, highlighting Indonesia’s preference for a non-combat role in the volatile region.

The potential ISF represents a rare opportunity for international cooperation to stabilise Gaza after more than two years of conflict, offering hope for civilians in the enclave who have faced devastating losses and displacement.