SINGAPORE: Singapore has intensified calls for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, as the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas escalates, worsening the already dire conditions for civilians. Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan recently highlighted Singapore’s concern regarding the widespread devastation and called for immediate access to humanitarian aid for Gazan civilians. He emphasized that the severe impacts on Gaza’s residents necessitate urgent international action to alleviate their suffering, reiterating Singapore’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in the region.
Call for Ceasefire and Aid Flow: Minister Balakrishnan has been vocal about the importance of halting hostilities to enable uninterrupted humanitarian aid delivery. He noted that the situation demands “an immediate humanitarian ceasefire” to support relief efforts on the ground. To this end, Singapore has increased its contributions, including a third aid tranche in collaboration with regional partners, furthering support for Gaza’s civilians amid extreme shortages of essential resources.
Support for UN Relief Operations Amid Restrictions:
Adding to the complex challenges, Singapore raised concerns about the Israeli Parliament’s recent legislation limiting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating in East Jerusalem. Balakrishnan cautioned that this could severely hinder UNRWA’s relief efforts, which are critical to Palestinians. He underscored Singapore’s opposition to actions that compromise the UN’s peacebuilding and humanitarian initiatives, reinforcing Singapore’s long-standing support for a two-state solution as the path to long-term peace.
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Singapore’s Balanced Stance on the Conflict:
Singapore has taken a carefully balanced position, recognizing Israel’s right to self-defense while cautioning against disproportionate military responses that threaten civilian lives and infrastructure in Gaza. Balakrishnan urged both parties to seek a diplomatic resolution, reaffirming that sustainable peace requires respecting both Israelis’ and Palestinians’ rights. Singapore’s policy aligns with its principles of maintaining diplomatic relations and engaging through multilateral channels to address global conflicts peacefully【9†source】.
Enhanced Humanitarian and Developmental Assistance:
Singapore’s humanitarian involvement in Gaza extends beyond immediate relief. The country continues to support Palestinian capacity-building through programs that provide training and technical assistance, reflecting Singapore’s commitment to long-term regional stability. As Balakrishnan stated, these efforts are integral to Singapore’s foreign policy goals of fostering constructive ties while addressing pressing humanitarian needs.
