Indonesia Appointed ISF Deputy Commander, Foreign Minister Sugiono: This Is an Honour

Foreign Minister Sugiono said Indonesia’s appointment as deputy commander of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) represents global recognition of the country’s military reputation. He noted that the assignment also reflects high expectations for Indonesia’s military contribution to bringing peace to Palestine.

“This operation is also something that honours and recognises Indonesia’s track record, as well as the reputation of Indonesian soldiers across various peacekeeping theatres,” Sugiono said in a statement on Friday (20/2/2026).

He explained that Indonesia was able to assume the ISF deputy commander role after receiving a direct invitation from the United States, which serves as force commander. In joint military operations, such a position is typically given to the country contributing the largest number of troops.

Indonesia was deemed to meet this criterion as it plans to deploy up to 8,000 TNI personnel in the ISF operation in Gaza. The total combined force to be stationed there will number approximately 20,000 personnel.

“With regard to the ISF, the force commander position is held by the United States. There are then three deputy commanders, one of which is the deputy commander for operations. Since Indonesian forces are also the largest contingent there, the operations deputy commander role is a mark of respect,” he said.

Sugiono further stated that the appointment is also expected to accommodate Indonesia’s primary objectives and intentions in sending troops to Gaza.

According to Sugiono, the principal aim of deploying forces to Gaza is to protect civilians on both sides and to participate in humanitarian efforts. He emphasised that Indonesia will not conduct military operations by deploying combat troops to Gaza.

“This position will also facilitate our objectives and intentions in sending forces to the ISF,” Sugiono said.

Previously, at the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington DC on Wednesday (19/2) local time, ISF Commander Major General Jasper Jeffers confirmed that he had offered the deputy commander position to Indonesia and stated that Indonesia had accepted the offer.

At the same occasion, President Prabowo Subianto confirmed the arrangement and committed to deploying Indonesia’s finest personnel to support the sustainable peace process in Gaza.