Why Indonesia has halted its Board of Peace (BoP) Gaza mission?

TheIndonesia.co - The Indonesian government has officially suspended all agendas related to the Board of Peace (BoP), including plans to deploy 8,000 Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel as peacekeepers to Gaza.

The strategic decision was taken in response to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, where tensions continue to rise.

“Everything is on hold. On hold,” said State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi at the Ministry of Defence in Jakarta on Tuesday (17 March 2026).

He added that the suspension will remain in place for an indefinite period, with no confirmed timeline from the government.

“Yes, until an unspecified time limit,” he said.

Previously, regarding Indonesia’s involvement in the US-initiated BoP, President Prabowo Subianto reiterated that Indonesia’s primary goal remains Palestinian independence through a two-state solution.

“If we are involved in it (BoP), we can still influence and work towards a long-term solution, which we believe is an independent Palestine through a two-state solution,” Prabowo said.

However, the plan to deploy peacekeeping troops to Gaza has now been formally postponed. All discussions related to the BoP are currently on hold due to the worsening conflict in the Middle East.

On the broader geopolitical front, President Prabowo has also offered Indonesia as a mediator in the conflict between the United States and Iran.

The conflict has created uncertainty and instability globally. According to Prabowo, all parties must be willing to engage in dialogue to end the tensions.

“My advice is always to seek peaceful options,” he said.

Deputy Chair of Commission I of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), Dave Laksono, expressed support for the government’s decision, describing the delay as a realistic step based on a comprehensive assessment of current security conditions.

“As Deputy Chair of Commission I, I believe the government’s decision to delay the deployment of approximately 8,000 peacekeeping troops to Gaza should be viewed within a broader strategic framework,” Dave said on Wednesday (18 March 2026).

He emphasised that Indonesia remains fully committed to supporting global peace. However, the safety of personnel and the effectiveness of the mission on the ground must remain top priorities.

“Indonesia has consistently supported international peace missions from the outset. However, every step must consider on-the-ground security dynamics, as well as logistical and diplomatic readiness. This delay does not signal a weakening of our commitment, but rather reflects caution to ensure that Indonesia’s contribution is truly effective and does not expose our troops to additional risks,” he explained.

Dave further assured that Indonesia continues to prioritise humanitarian concerns in Gaza. The government will maintain close communication with the United Nations (UN) and international partners to determine the appropriate timing for any future deployment.

“In line with our constitutional mandate, we reaffirm our full solidarity with humanitarian efforts. When conditions allow, the presence of Indonesian peacekeepers is expected to make a tangible contribution to stability in Gaza,” he added.

He stressed that the suspension is driven purely by geopolitical realities on the ground and should not be interpreted as Indonesia stepping back from its global peacekeeping role.

“This decision must be understood as a measured and responsible diplomatic step. Commission I and the government remain committed to supporting peace missions in the most appropriate way,” Dave concluded.