Jakarta has firmly rejected the notion that Indonesia would pay a hefty $1 billion fee to secure a permanent position on the controversial “Board of Peace” initiative spearheaded by former US President Donald Trump. The Indonesian president, facing domestic backlash for his country’s involvement in the board, clarified that the nation’s commitment is limited strictly to providing peacekeeping troops rather than any financial contribution. This statement came amid growing concerns over the board’s structure and the implications of its membership requirements.
The “Board of Peace” was established following a ceasefire agreement brokered in October by the Trump administration, in collaboration with Qatar and Egypt, aiming to end the prolonged and devastating conflict in Gaza that had lasted for two years. However, the board’s demand that countries pay $1 billion to obtain permanent membership has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. Many observers have likened the arrangement to a “pay-to-play” system, raising fears that it could undermine the legitimacy and impartiality traditionally associated with international peacekeeping bodies like the United Nations Security Council.
Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia’s defense minister and former general, has been at the center of the controversy. His decision to join the board and pledge the deployment of 8,000 Indonesian peacekeepers to Gaza has sparked disapproval from influential Muslim groups within Indonesia. These groups argue that the country’s involvement should prioritize Palestinian interests and align with Indonesia’s broader foreign policy goals. Prabowo attended the inaugural meeting of the “Board of Peace” in Washington last month, but he has since expressed reservations about the initiative’s effectiveness and alignment with national priorities.
In a statement broadcast on the presidential YouTube channel, Prabowo was unequivocal in denying any commitment to the $1 billion payment. He emphasized that Indonesia never agreed to such a financial obligation and that no monetary pledges were made during discussions. This clarification aims to dispel rumors and reassure the Indonesian public that the country’s participation in the board is focused on peacekeeping efforts rather than financial transactions.
It is also important to note that Prabowo recently signed a tariff agreement with the United States, signaling ongoing economic cooperation between the two nations. However, he reiterated that Indonesia reserves the right to withdraw from any agreement if its terms or implementation threaten the country’s national interests. This stance reflects Indonesia’s cautious approach to international commitments, ensuring that any engagement serves the welfare of its people and respects its sovereignty.
Meanwhile, discussions with Washington regarding Indonesia’s potential peacekeeping role in Gaza have been temporarily suspended. The state news agency Antara reported that the Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Vahd Nabyl Achmad Mulachela, confirmed talks are currently on hold as the government reassesses the situation. This pause indicates Jakarta’s careful deliberation over its involvement in a complex and sensitive conflict zone, balancing international responsibilities with domestic concerns.
