WEB DESK: President Joko Widodo of Indonesia has clarified that the country will not be paying a $1 billion fee to join the Gaza Peace Board.
In statements to international media, the president reiterated that Indonesia’s involvement is solely focused on dispatching peacekeeping forces to Gaza, and no financial contribution of such magnitude was ever agreed upon. He emphasized that Indonesia’s role is limited to peacekeeping efforts and that no monetary commitments have been made. The president assured readiness to deploy the necessary number of troops to support peace in the region.
This statement was issued to address concerns that the proposed financial obligation might put a strain on Indonesia’s national budget. Previously, on February 3rd, Indonesia’s Finance Minister had suggested that the costs could be covered within the Defense Ministry’s existing budget.
President Widodo participated in the inaugural session of the Gaza Peace Board held in Washington. Despite this participation, he has faced considerable criticism domestically, with some questioning Indonesia’s involvement in the initiative.
During the meeting, countries pledged a total of $17 billion for Gaza’s reconstruction, emergency relief, and security efforts. The United States pledged $10 billion, while nine other nations, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, collectively committed $7 billion.
