Indonesia Prepares to Deploy Hospital Ships Again for Gaza
In an admirable display of international solidarity, Indonesia is gearing up to send hospital ships to Gaza once more, continuing its longstanding commitment to global peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts. This renewed endeavor was notably mentioned by Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia's Minister of Defence and President-elect, during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on June 1, 2024. Prabowo's statement emphasized Indonesia's readiness to deploy a significant peacekeeping force under a United Nations mandate to help stabilize the Gaza Strip.
In addition to military peacekeepers, Indonesia plans to provide medical evacuation and treatment for up to a thousand wounded Palestinians. This ambitious plan underscores the country's dedication to offering substantial aid in crisis zones. As part of the peacekeeping force, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Commander, General Agus Subiyanto, outlined a brigade-sized unit, two helicopters, and two hospital ships.
One of these hospital ships, KRI Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo (991), has recently undergone a transformation to ensure compliance with international regulations. On July 18, PT PAL, Indonesia's state-owned shipbuilder, revealed that the ship had been repainted white in accordance with the Geneva Convention. This repainting is part of a thorough technical inspection to confirm the vessel's readiness for its crucial mission. KRI Dr. Wahidin, launched in January 2021, is the first Indonesian Navy hospital ship constructed domestically, reflecting Indonesia's growing naval capabilities.
Indonesia's experience in deploying hospital ships isn't new. Earlier this year, KRI Dr. Radjiman Wedyodiningrat (992) was sent on a humanitarian mission to Gaza, carrying 242 tonnes of aid and a medical team. However, due to restrictions from Egyptian authorities, the ship was only able to stay at Al Arish Port, transferring the aid to the Egyptian Red Crescent for delivery to Gaza. The voyage was fraught with challenges, including potential threats from the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, necessitating a security detail of 36 naval special forces personnel.
The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) operates two other hospital ships, KRI Dr. Soeharso (990) and KRI Dr. Radjiman Wedyodiningrat (992), both critical assets in the nation's humanitarian and peacekeeping missions. These ships not only symbolize Indonesia's commitment to international peace but also highlight the logistical capabilities of the Indonesian navy.
In light of these developments, the potential deployment of hospital ships like KRI Dr. Wahidin and KRI Dr. Radjiman to Gaza or nearby regions demonstrates Indonesia's evolving role in global security and humanitarian efforts. This initiative is not just about providing medical aid; it's about showcasing Indonesia's readiness to respond to international crises and contribute meaningfully to global peacekeeping.
As Indonesia navigates the dual pressures of international commitments and domestic needs, the country's naval forces are being bolstered. On July 2, TNI AL Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali announced plans to procure more Landing Platform Docks (LPDs) and Landing Ship Tanks (LSTs) to enhance the navy's sealift capacity. These developments, including the future inclusion of Landing Helicopter Docks (LHDs), reflect Indonesia's strategic vision for a versatile and capable naval fleet.
Indonesia's proactive stance in preparing and deploying hospital ships to Gaza is a testament to its unwavering commitment to humanitarian aid and international peacekeeping. As the nation continues to develop its naval capabilities, its role on the global stage is set to become even more prominent, reflecting a harmonious blend of compassion and strategic foresight.
