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Indonesia in Gaza: Risks for Soldiers in Non-UN Peacekeeping Mission

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Jakarta – Keterlibatan tentara Indonesia dalam proyek Dewan Perdamaian (Board of Peace) di Gaza telah memicu perdebatan di dalam negeri. Indonesia, yang telah mengirimkan pasukan dalam misi PBB selama lebih dari 70 tahun, dikenal karena kontribusinya dalam menjaga perdamaian di berbagai wilayah konflik di seluruh dunia. Namun, tantangan yang dihadapi tentara Indonesia dalam misi ini, terutama dalam konteks infrastruktur militer Hamas di Gaza, menjadi perhatian utama.

Indonesia akan menjadi salah satu dari lima negara yang mengirimkan pasukan untuk bergabung dengan Pasukan Stabilisasi Internasional (ISF) di Gaza, bersama Kosovo, Kazakhstan, Albania, dan Maroko. Dari kelima negara ini, hanya Maroko yang memiliki pengalaman mengirimkan pasukan ke dalam misi penjaga perdamaian PBB, meskipun jumlahnya tidak sebanyak Indonesia.

Penting untuk dicatat bahwa ISF berbeda dengan misi penjaga perdamaian PBB, karena tidak berada di bawah kendali Dewan Keamanan PBB. Dukungan Dewan Keamanan PBB terhadap Board of Peace, yang diungkapkan dalam sidang pada 17 November 2025, memberikan legitimasi bagi negara-negara anggota PBB, termasuk Indonesia, untuk berpartisipasi dalam ISF.

Tugas dan Risiko TNI di Gaza

Pasukan ISF akan melaksanakan enam tugas utama di Gaza, termasuk mengamankan wilayah perbatasan, melindungi warga sipil, melatih polisi Palestina, dan mengamankan “koridor kemanusiaan” untuk bantuan. Salah satu tugas paling kontroversial adalah terlibat dalam demilitarisasi Gaza dengan menghancurkan infrastruktur militer dan melucuti senjata Hamas.

Menurut Muradi, seorang pakar pertahanan dari Universitas Padjajaran, keterlibatan tentara Indonesia dalam demilitarisasi Hamas membawa risiko yang signifikan. “Selain pelucutan senjata, penghancuran terowongan dapat mengarah pada pertempuran yang rumit bagi pasukan Indonesia,” ujarnya. Dia menekankan bahwa terlibat dalam demiliterisasi dapat menempatkan Indonesia pada posisi yang tidak netral, yang bertentangan dengan kebijakan luar negeri negara.

Pemerintah Israel telah berusaha menghancurkan terowongan yang digunakan oleh Hamas, yang dianggap sebagai bagian dari strategi tempur mereka. Di Gaza, terowongan ini bukan hanya alat pertahanan, tetapi juga simbol perlawanan terhadap Israel.

Lokasi Penempatan Pasukan dan Implikasinya

Kabar terbaru menunjukkan bahwa tentara Indonesia akan ditempatkan di wilayah selatan Gaza, khususnya di sekitar Rafah dan Khan Younis. Rafah merupakan jalur keluar bagi warga Gaza menuju Mesir dan satu-satunya pintu gerbang untuk bantuan kemanusiaan. Menurut pensiunan jenderal IDF, Amir Avivi, wilayah ini telah diratakan oleh Israel, dan Israel berencana membangun kamp untuk warga Palestina di atas terowongan yang harus dihancurkan oleh pasukan ISF.

Rafah juga dikenal sebagai “zona sensitif Hamas,” di mana pasukan Indonesia mungkin dianggap sebagai kekuatan musuh oleh Hamas saat mereka membersihkan infrastruktur bawah tanah. Heru Susetyo Nuswanto, seorang pakar studi perdamaian, menekankan bahwa pasukan Indonesia dapat terjebak dalam konflik antara Hamas dan IDF. “Kita bisa masuk dalam jebakan. Ini berbahaya,” ungkapnya.

Kekhawatiran Hukum dan Kemanusiaan

Ada kekhawatiran bahwa tentara Indonesia dapat secara tidak sengaja melanggar hukum humaniter, terutama dalam situasi yang melibatkan bentrokan dengan Hamas. Heru menyebutkan bahwa pasukan TNI mungkin akan kesulitan membedakan antara kombatan dan non-kombatan di wilayah tersebut. “Walau sejak awal dinyatakan sebagai pasukan non-kombatan, saya tidak yakin mereka tidak akan membawa senjata, terutama di daerah seperti Rafah,” tambahnya.

Menteri Luar Negeri Indonesia, Sugiono, mengklaim bahwa keterlibatan Indonesia di ISF tidak berkaitan dengan hubungan diplomatik dengan Israel. Dia menegaskan bahwa pasukan Indonesia akan fokus pada perlindungan warga sipil dan aktivitas kemanusiaan. Meski demikian, ada batasan ketat mengenai penggunaan kekuatan yang hanya diperbolehkan untuk mempertahankan diri.

Biaya Operasional dan Implikasi Finansial

Salah satu isu yang menjadi sorotan adalah biaya operasional untuk tentara Indonesia di Gaza. Dewi Fortuna Anwar, seorang pakar hubungan internasional, menyatakan bahwa keterlibatan tentara dalam misi penjaga perdamaian biasanya dibiayai oleh Dewan Keamanan PBB. Namun, jika misi ini tidak di bawah PBB, biaya akan ditanggung oleh negara pengirim atau otoritas wilayah yang menerima, yang dalam kasus Gaza, tidak mampu membayar.

Sugiono menjelaskan bahwa biaya operasional pasukan Indonesia akan ditanggung oleh pemerintah dan pihak-pihak yang mendukung Board of Peace. Kementerian Keuangan Indonesia juga telah mengalokasikan anggaran untuk misi ini, meski laporan menyebutkan bahwa Indonesia belum membayar iuran yang diharuskan kepada Board of Peace.

Anggaran Dewan Keamanan PBB untuk misi penjaga perdamaian pada periode 2024-2025 mencapai Rp94 triliun, dengan kontribusi terbesar dari pemerintah AS. Tentara yang terlibat dalam misi ini biasanya mendapatkan gaji sekitar US$1.410 per bulan, yang dibayarkan oleh PBB kepada pemerintah negara asal tentara tersebut.

Indonesia memiliki rekam jejak yang panjang dalam operasi penjaga perdamaian PBB dan telah mengirimkan lebih dari 45.000 tentara sejak 1957. Namun, tantangan di Gaza mungkin menjadi yang paling kompleks yang dihadapi tentara Indonesia hingga saat ini.

Ke depan, penting bagi pemerintah Indonesia untuk memastikan bahwa mandat dan aturan keterlibatan yang jelas diterapkan untuk melindungi prajurit dan meminimalkan risiko pelanggaran hukum. Diskusi terus berlanjut tentang dampak misi ini terhadap kebijakan luar negeri Indonesia dan potensi risiko bagi tentara yang terlibat.

Kami mengundang pembaca untuk memberikan komentar dan berbagi pandangan mengenai situasi ini.

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world

February 21 History: Key Events & On This Day | UPI.com

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

On February 21st, the world marked the 176th anniversary of the publication of “The Communist Manifesto” by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, a text that continues to shape political discourse. The original pamphlet, published in London in 1848, outlined a theory of class struggle and a call for a proletarian revolution.

The anniversary arrives as geopolitical tensions remain high, with ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered troops into separatist regions of eastern Ukraine, a move widely condemned internationally. This action, framed by Russia as a “peacekeeping” operation, preceded a full-scale invasion days later.

Elsewhere, historical milestones were observed. The Washington Monument, dedicated on February 21, 1885, stands as a tribute to America’s first president. The 555-foot-high marble obelisk commemorates George Washington’s leadership during the Revolutionary War.

In 1916, the Battle of Verdun commenced in northeastern France, marking the beginning of a protracted and devastating conflict. The battle, lasting nearly ten months, resulted in the deaths of over one million soldiers from both the German and French armies, becoming the longest battle of World War I.

The date also holds significance in the realm of scientific discovery. In 1953, Francis Crick and James Watson unveiled their groundbreaking discovery of the double helix structure of DNA, a pivotal moment in the understanding of genetics. It would take another three decades to produce a clear, direct picture of the DNA molecule.

The legacy of political activism was also remembered. February 21st marks the anniversary of the assassination of Malcolm X in 1965, a prominent figure in the Black Muslim movement. He was killed at a rally in New York City, and while several men were convicted of the murder, convictions were later undermined by new evidence.

Diplomatic history was made on this date in 1972, when Richard Nixon became the first U.S. President to visit the People’s Republic of China, initiating a period of normalized relations. More recently, in 2014, President Barack Obama met with the Dalai Lama at the White House, despite warnings from China that such a meeting would damage U.S.-China relations. The White House reiterated the U.S. Position that Tibet is part of the People’s Republic of China and does not support Tibetan independence.

In Berlin, the Marx-Engels Forum, a public park established in honor of the 20th anniversary of the German Democratic Republic, features a monument to Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. The monument consists of bronze figures of Marx sitting and Engels standing, alongside four double steles with images burned into the stainless steel.

The Hayabusa-2 probe, a Japanese space agency mission, touched down on asteroid Ryugu on February 21, 2019, marking the first time a probe successfully deployed working rovers onto an asteroid.

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Entertainment

Ragdoll: Jermyn Street Theatre – Delightful & Darkly Funny!

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

The Enduring Legacy of Coercion: How Power, Privilege, and Infamy Shape Modern Narratives

Nearly half a century after the Patty Hearst kidnapping captivated the world, the case continues to resonate, not just as a historical anomaly, but as a chilling precursor to the manipulation and disinformation campaigns that define our current era. The story, now inspiring plays like Katherine Moar’s latest work, highlights a disturbing truth: the lines between victim and perpetrator can be deliberately blurred, especially when power dynamics and societal privilege are at play. This isn’t simply a story about one heiress; it’s a blueprint for how narratives can be weaponized.

From Stockholm Syndrome to Strategic Disinformation

The Hearst case popularized the term “Stockholm Syndrome,” attempting to explain her apparent allegiance to her captors. While the psychological complexities remain debated, the core issue – coercion – is increasingly relevant. Today, we see sophisticated forms of coercion employed not through physical captivity, but through digital manipulation. Social media algorithms, targeted advertising, and the spread of fake news can all exert a powerful influence on beliefs and behaviors, effectively holding individuals captive within echo chambers. This parallels the isolation and psychological control exerted by the Symbionese Liberation Army, albeit on a vastly larger scale.

The Role of Media in Amplifying Infamy

Hearst’s infamy was, in many ways, manufactured by the relentless media coverage. Every action, every statement, was scrutinized and amplified, creating a spectacle that both captivated and condemned. This dynamic hasn’t changed. In the age of 24/7 news cycles and viral content, individuals can be instantly elevated to notoriety – or destroyed – based on carefully curated narratives. The speed and reach of modern media mean that reputations can be irrevocably damaged before due process can even begin. Consider the impact of “cancel culture” and the swiftness with which individuals are ostracized for perceived transgressions.

Power Imbalances and the Erosion of Trust

At the heart of the Hearst case lay a stark power imbalance. Her wealth and social standing, while making her a target, also initially shielded her from full accountability. This dynamic – where privilege influences outcomes – continues to be a defining feature of our society. From the justice system to corporate boardrooms, those with power and resources often enjoy advantages that are unavailable to others. This breeds distrust and fuels social unrest. A recent study by the Pew Research Center (https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2023/03/08/americans-views-of-trust-in-government-declining/) demonstrates a significant decline in public trust in institutions, directly correlated with perceptions of unfairness and inequality.

The Weaponization of Narrative Control

The Symbionese Liberation Army understood the power of narrative control. They didn’t just want to kidnap Patty Hearst; they wanted to use her as a symbol to challenge the established order. Today, this tactic is employed by state actors, political groups, and even individuals seeking to manipulate public opinion. The proliferation of deepfakes, AI-generated content, and sophisticated disinformation campaigns makes it increasingly difficult to discern truth from fiction. This erosion of trust in verifiable information poses a fundamental threat to democratic institutions.

Looking Ahead: Resilience and Critical Thinking

The lessons of the Patty Hearst case, and the echoes we see in contemporary events, are clear: we must cultivate resilience against manipulation and prioritize critical thinking skills. Media literacy education is paramount, empowering individuals to evaluate sources, identify biases, and resist the allure of sensationalism. Furthermore, we need to address the underlying power imbalances that make individuals vulnerable to coercion in the first place. This requires systemic changes that promote fairness, equality, and accountability. The enduring relevance of this story isn’t about revisiting the past; it’s about preparing for a future where the battle for narrative control will only intensify.

What strategies do you believe are most effective in combating disinformation and protecting against manipulation in the digital age? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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News

Nixon’s Calculated Restraint: A Retrospective Look at His Composure and Strategy

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor




Presidential Comments on Active Cases: A History of Controversy

Washington D.C. – Throughout United States history,the line between the Executive Branch and the judicial process has occasionally blurred,often with contentious results. Instances of Presidents publicly addressing ongoing criminal trials have repeatedly ignited debates concerning ethics, fairness, and the potential for undue influence. The issue of presidential comments on pending legal matters resurfaced recently, prompting a review of past occurrences, beginning with a landmark case in 1970.

The Manson Case and Nixon‘s Intervention

Table of Contents

On August 3, 1970, as the trial of Charles Manson and his followers for the horrific Tate-labianca murders was underway in Los Angeles, President Richard Nixon offered unsolicited commentary. while attending a crime control conference in Denver, Nixon expressed concern that media coverage portrayed Manson as a “glamorous figure.” He publicly stated his belief in Manson’s guilt, an action widely criticized as a direct breach of ethical boundaries.

The immediate aftermath saw intense damage control from the Nixon Administration. Press Secretary Ronald ziegler attempted to clarify that the President had intended to use the word “alleged,” while Attorney General John Mitchell asserted Nixon hadn’t made a concrete accusation.Nixon himself issued a statement affirming his respect for due process and the presumption of innocence,but the damage was done. Defense attorneys promptly demanded a mistrial, arguing that the President’s remarks had irrevocably prejudiced potential jurors.

A Recurring Pattern: Presidential Remarks and Legal Challenges

Nixon’s actions weren’t isolated. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan drew scrutiny for expressing confidence in the eventual acquittal of oliver North and John Poindexter, figures indicted in the Iran-Contra affair, declaring North a “hero”. Though the White House attempted to frame thes as personal opinions, the comments raised similar concerns about influencing a legal outcome. In both instances, the circumstances of the cases, and the positions held by the defendants, made the comments especially sensitive.

More recently, Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden also faced criticism for statements possibly perceived as prejudging cases. in 2009, President Obama predicted a conviction and the application of the death penalty for Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the alleged mastermind of the 9/11 attacks, requiring a subsequent clarification. In 2021, President Biden voiced his hope for “the right verdict” in the trial of Derek Chauvin, who was accused of murdering George Floyd, also necessitating a follow-up statement emphasizing his respect for the judicial process.

President Year Case Nature of Comment
Richard Nixon 1970 charles Manson Trial Declared Manson guilty.
ronald Reagan 1988 Iran-Contra Affair Expressed confidence in acquittal of aides.
Barack Obama 2009 Khalid Sheikh mohammed Predicted conviction & death penalty.
Joe Biden 2021 Derek Chauvin Trial Expressed hope for “the right verdict”.

Did You Know? The principle of “sub judice” – meaning “under judgment” – is a legal concept that restricts public discussion of ongoing court cases to avoid prejudicing the outcome. This principle is a cornerstone of fair trial rights.

The Trump Administration and a shift in Norms

However, no President has consistently challenged the established norms surrounding comments on active investigations to the extent of Donald Trump. Throughout his presidency, Trump frequently and publicly offered opinions on cases involving individuals he viewed as allies or opponents, frequently enough appearing unconcerned with the legal implications of his statements. This open disregard for customary boundaries substantially intensified the debate regarding presidential interference in the judicial system.

Pro Tip: Following legal proceedings and understanding the role of due process is vital for informed citizenship. Resources like the American Bar Association offer comprehensive facts on the U.S. legal system. American Bar Association

The Importance of Judicial independence

These instances underscore the critical importance of maintaining judicial independence. A fair and impartial justice system requires that court cases be decided based on evidence and law, free from external pressures-especially those emanating from the highest levels of government. Any perception of influence can erode public trust in the legal process and undermine the foundations of democracy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the potential consequence of a President commenting on an ongoing trial? A President’s comments can potentially lead to a mistrial, compromising the defendant’s right to a fair trial.
  • Is there a legal precedent preventing presidents from commenting on cases? While no specific law explicitly prohibits such comments, established ethical norms and the principle of “sub judice” strongly discourage them.
  • How do courts typically respond to presidential remarks? Courts may issue gag orders limiting public discussion or closely monitor jury instructions to ensure impartiality.
  • Why is judicial independence so vital for a democracy? Judicial independence safeguards the rule of law,protecting citizens from arbitrary power and ensuring equal justice under the law.
  • Have any Presidential comments led to a mistrial being declared? While rare, there have been instances where defense attorneys have successfully argued for mistrials based on perceived presidential influence.

The ongoing tension between the Executive Branch and the Judiciary serves as a constant reminder of the delicate balance required to uphold the principles of justice and fairness within the American legal system. What role should the president play in public discussions surrounding ongoing legal cases, and how can we safeguard the impartiality of our courts?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and share this article with your network!


How did Nixon’s understanding of realpolitik influence his pursuit of detente with the Soviet Union?

Nixon’s Calculated Restraint: A Retrospective Look at His Composure and Strategy

The Art of Controlled Response: Nixon’s Foreign Policy Approach

Richard Nixon, often remembered for the Watergate scandal, was also a master strategist, particularly in the realm of foreign policy. His approach wasn’t defined by impulsive reactions,but by a calculated restraint – a deliberate pacing of initiatives designed to maximize leverage and minimize risk. This strategy, born from a deep understanding of geopolitical dynamics and a somewhat pessimistic view of human nature, shaped his presidency and continues to be studied by political scientists and historians today. Key terms associated with this era include detente, realpolitik, and triangular diplomacy.

Understanding Realpolitik and Detente

Nixon’s foreign policy was heavily influenced by realpolitik, a system of politics based on practical considerations rather than ideology. He believed in dealing with the world as it was, not as he wished it to be. This contrasted sharply with the more idealistic approaches of previous administrations.

* Realpolitik in Action: Recognizing the Soviet Union as a permanent fixture on the world stage, Nixon pursued detente – a relaxation of tensions – rather than attempting to isolate or overthrow the communist regime.

* Shifting the Paradigm: This wasn’t a sign of weakness, but a calculated move to exploit the Sino-Soviet split, a growing ideological and political rift between China and the USSR.

triangular Diplomacy: Playing the Great Powers

Nixon,along with his National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger,pioneered triangular diplomacy. This involved strategically maneuvering between the United States, China, and the Soviet Union to gain advantages for the US.

  1. Opening to China (1972): The historic visit to China in 1972 was a pivotal moment. It signaled a dramatic shift in US foreign policy and put pressure on the Soviet Union to negotiate. This opening wasn’t about embracing communism; it was about leveraging China as a counterweight to Soviet power.
  2. SALT I Treaty (1972): Simultaneously, Nixon engaged in Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT I) with the Soviet Union, resulting in a treaty limiting the production of strategic nuclear weapons. The threat of improved US-China relations spurred the Soviets to the negotiating table.
  3. maintaining Leverage: This triangular approach allowed Nixon to maintain leverage with both superpowers, preventing either from becoming overly dominant.

Domestic Challenges and the Projection of Strength

While pursuing detente abroad, Nixon faced significant domestic challenges, including the Vietnam War and growing anti-war protests.His strategy of calculated restraint extended to these issues as well.

The Vietnam War: A Gradual Withdrawal

Nixon didn’t end the vietnam War overnight. Instead, he pursued a policy of Vietnamization – gradually withdrawing US troops while strengthening the South vietnamese army. This was a controversial strategy, but it allowed him to extricate the US from a costly and unpopular conflict without appearing to simply abandon its ally.

* Secret Bombing Campaigns: Alongside Vietnamization, Nixon authorized secret bombing campaigns in Cambodia and Laos, aimed at disrupting North vietnamese supply lines. These actions were highly controversial and contributed to the growing anti-war sentiment.

* Paris Peace Accords (1973): Ultimately, the Paris Peace Accords were signed in 1973, leading to the withdrawal of US troops. However, the peace proved fragile, and South Vietnam eventually fell to the North in 1975.

Managing Public Perception: Composure Under Fire

Nixon was known for his composure,even in the face of intense criticism. This was a deliberate tactic. He understood the importance of projecting strength and confidence, both domestically and internationally.

* The Silent Majority: Nixon appealed to the “silent majority” of Americans who he believed supported his policies but were not vocal in their opposition to the anti-war movement.

* Controlling the narrative: He carefully controlled the flow of information and used television to communicate directly with the American people, shaping public perception of his management.

Case Study: the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War

Nixon’s calculated restraint is vividly illustrated by his administration’s response to the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. Despite widespread atrocities committed by the Pakistani army against the Bengali population, Nixon sided with Pakistan, a key ally in his strategy against the Soviet Union.

* Strategic Alignment: Pakistan served as a crucial back channel to China. Nixon feared that supporting India, which backed the Bengali independence movement, would alienate China and jeopardize his efforts to open relations.

* Ignoring Human Rights Concerns: This decision, widely criticized for its disregard for

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