Indonesia’s President to Join First ‘Board of Peace’ Meeting in Washington Amid Gaza Recovery Talks
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is set to travel to Washington this month to attend the inaugural meeting of US President Donald Trump’s newly formed “Board of Peace,” marking a significant diplomatic moment for Jakarta on the global stage.
According to Indonesia’s foreign ministry, the government has formally accepted the invitation, and President Prabowo plans to be present at the first official session scheduled for February 19.
The Board of Peace, chaired by President Trump, was initially introduced as an initiative to oversee the rebuilding of Gaza following two years of devastating conflict. However, its mandate appears to extend beyond Gaza, suggesting a broader ambition in shaping international peace and stabilization efforts.
Indonesia’s participation comes at a sensitive time. The Southeast Asian nation is currently in discussions with Washington over a potential trade agreement, while also signaling its willingness to contribute to peace efforts in the Middle East. Earlier this week, Indonesian officials indicated the country could deploy troops to Gaza under a US-backed framework aimed at ending the Israel-Hamas war.
President Prabowo previously attended the launch of the Board of Peace during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where around 19 countries signed on to the initiative. His continued involvement signals Indonesia’s interest in playing a more active role in international peacebuilding.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Vahd Nabyl Achmad Mulachela said Indonesia intends to use the platform to advocate for a just and sustainable peace, grounded in a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The government also plans to emphasize civilian protection and push for accelerated recovery and reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
The structure of the Board of Peace has sparked debate internationally. Reports indicate that permanent membership requires a contribution of US$1 billion, raising concerns among critics that the body could resemble a “pay-to-play” alternative to the United Nations Security Council.
Indonesia has not confirmed whether it intends to pursue permanent membership or pay the associated fee. Cabinet officials have clarified that Indonesia’s participation is currently non-permanent and retains the flexibility to withdraw at any time.
As the world watches, Indonesia continues to position itself as a consistent supporter of Palestinian independence. The country has long advocated for a two-state solution and has maintained diplomatic alignment with humanitarian principles in the region.
Meanwhile, Indonesia’s military has stated it is prepared to send up to 8,000 troops to Gaza should an International Stabilisation Force be formally established. Defence ministry spokesperson Rico Ricardo Sirait emphasized that no final decision has been made regarding troop numbers or deployment timelines.
If deployed, Indonesian personnel would focus primarily on reconstruction support and healthcare services rather than combat operations. “In principle, Indonesia is ready to contribute to peace and humanitarian efforts,” Rico said.
At its core, this development reflects more than geopolitics. It highlights Indonesia’s growing confidence in shaping international dialogue and contributing to global stability. For millions affected by conflict, the decisions made in Washington this February could influence the path toward recovery, diplomacy, and long-term peace.