RRI.CO.ID, Washington D.C - Indonesia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sugiono emphasized that Indonesia’s contribution to the International Stabilization Force (ISF) is focused on maintaining stability, protecting civilians, and supporting humanitarian efforts, not on conducting military operations or demilitarization.

“We are not conducting military operations, we are not carrying out disarmament, and we are not engaging in what is called demilitarization. What we are doing is protecting civilians on both sides and taking part in humanitarian efforts on the ground,” Sugiono told the media in Washington D.C., Friday, 20 February 2026.

According to him, Indonesian troops will still operate under rules of engagement that allow for self-defense if they face threats in the field. Regarding the command structure, he said the ISF force commander is held by the United States, while there are three deputy commanders, including a deputy commander for operations.

The operations deputy position reflects recognition of Indonesia’s track record and the strong reputation of its peacekeeping troops. “Because Indonesian troops are among the largest contingents there, the deputy commander for operations is also a form of recognition of Indonesia’s track record,” he said.

Regarding the deployment plan of around 8,000 personnel, Sugiono explained that the process will be carried out in stages in line with the division of operational areas into several sectors. The total ISF force across all sectors is estimated at around 20,000 personnel or more.

He also confirmed that the government has communicated with the Palestinian side regarding the plan and conveyed Indonesia’s role limitations. According to him, the Palestinian side understands and accepts the presence of troops, with the main priority being to create a safe and stable situation through a ceasefire.

“So the Palestinian side is already there, they know and understand, and we have conveyed our national caveat, so everyone is involved,” Sugiono said.

On troop welfare, Sugiono undrrscored that peacekeepers’ welfare standards have established benchmarks, while the Indonesian government is responsible for deploying and supporting its personnel. “Any operation carries risks. That is why we need a clear mandate and clear rules of engagement so that our troops do not become casualties outside the mission,” he said.

On financing, Sugiono noted that several countries and other parties have pledged contributions to support ISF operations, in addition to costs borne by troop-contributing countries, including Indonesia. However, there has been no detailed discussion on additional financial contributions from Indonesia so far.

He added that Indonesia has also conveyed its concerns about the situation on the ground to relevant forums while encouraging the implementation of the peace plan in line with agreed proposals. Indonesia’s contribution to ISF, he said, reflects its commitment to supporting stability and the peace process through civilian protection and humanitarian approaches.