Mar 12 β€’ 04:01 UTC πŸ‡ΆπŸ‡¦ Qatar Al Jazeera

Indonesian Defense Minister: Deployment of Forces in Gaza Depends on the 'Peace Council'

Indonesia's Defense Minister has stated that the deployment of troops to Gaza will depend on developments in the 'Peace Council.'

Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto announced that the decision to send troops as part of an international security force to Gaza will be contingent upon the situation within the so-called 'Peace Council.' Initially, Indonesia had proposed sending around 20,000 soldiers, but now they are contemplating a gradual deployment of about 8,000 personnel, with other countries also committing to lower troop numbers.

This announcement comes alongside President Subianto's warning that Indonesia may withdraw from the 'Peace Council' established by former U.S. President Donald Trump if it does not serve Palestinian interests. A government statement indicated that during a meeting with local Islamic leaders, the President stressed that Indonesia's continued participation in the council hinges on its alignment with the interests of the Palestinian people and national interests of Indonesia.

The potential involvement of Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim-majority country, in this council and its decision to contribute troops to stabilize Gaza has faced criticism from experts and local Islamic groups, who argue that such a move might harm Indonesia’s reputation and relationship with the Muslim community globally. As tensions in the region remain high, this development underscores the complexities faced by Indonesia in balancing its international responsibilities with domestic expectations and global Islamic solidarity.

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