United States ruler Donald Trump’s Board of Peace has vowed to send thousands of troops to Gaza for deployment. Trump announced the initiative in a Truth Social post, stating that countries participating will formalize their commitments at a meeting on February 19th in Washington.
“Member States have pledged more than $5 BILLION DOLLARS toward the Gaza Humanitarian and Reconstruction efforts, and have committed thousands of personnel to the International Stabilization Force and Local Police,” he wrote, adding that Hamas must uphold its commitment to full and immediate “demilitarization.”
Trump Reveals “Phase Two” of the Gaza Ceasefire
The deployment of military troops to Gaza was touted as part of an effort to maintain “security and peace” in the Palestinian enclave. Unfortunately, most people do not view military occupation as peaceful or humanitarian.
Trump did not state which nations have pledged troops or funding for the Gaza reconstruction efforts. However, Indonesia’s military said it has 8,000 personnel on standby, potentially making it the first country to formally commit forces if the government gives formal approval.
“Our troops are fully prepared and can be dispatched at short notice once the government gives formal approval,” Army spokesman Brigadier General Donny Pramono told the Associated Press on Sunday. The troops will be ready by the end of June for official deployment to Gaza.
Israel has reportedly accepted an invitation, while several European nations, including France, Germany, Italy, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, have declined. Russia has confirmed receipt of the invitation and said it is studying the proposal. Permanent membership beyond the initial three years will reportedly require a $1 billion contribution.
The U.S.-led peace effort is intended to oversee reconstruction, security, and political transition in the enclave, but critics have questioned its mandate and the absence of Palestinian political representation. Hamas has said it is committed to the peace process but will only disarm if Israeli forces withdraw from the enclave.