Singapore Calls for Increased Aid to Gaza in Meetings with Israel

During a recent visit to Israel, Singapore’s Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan emphasized the urgent need for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. Meetings with Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, highlighted Singapore’s commitment to supporting the region amid ongoing conflict. The discussions took place following a four-day work trip to Israel and the Palestinian Territories, concluding on November 6, 2023.

Dr. Balakrishnan articulated Singapore’s position clearly, stating, “We need to have a significant surge in humanitarian assistance. There should be no reason for any Palestinian in Gaza to be short of food or to be denied access, or have any restriction on access to medical care.” His statements come after the initial phase of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas was established last month, highlighting the pressing need for humanitarian support.

Support for the Palestinian Authority

While in the region, Dr. Balakrishnan met with leaders of the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah, where he donated US$500,000 aimed at alleviating food insecurity in Gaza. He underscored the importance of encouraging Israel to engage more actively with the Palestinian Authority, noting that Palestinian leaders are receptive to such engagement. “The fact is that the Palestinian leaders in the Palestinian Authority actually do look forward to this engagement,” he remarked.

Dr. Balakrishnan reiterated Singapore’s long-standing support for a negotiated two-state solution as the only viable path to achieving a just and lasting resolution to the conflict. He expressed optimism about the future, stating, “The Israeli leaders know that there’s a long and difficult journey ahead, but there is also a consciousness that you can’t just keep repeating these cycles of failure and violence.”

International Support for Peace

Achieving peace, according to Dr. Balakrishnan, will necessitate backing from the international community, including the United Nations and the United States. He referenced President Donald Trump and his 20-point peace plan, emphasizing the need for its implementation through a UN Security Council resolution. “There needs to be progress in which the two peoples find a way to coexist in peace, dignity and security,” he stated.

When asked about the response from Israeli leaders regarding Singapore’s stance, Dr. Balakrishnan noted their acceptance of Singapore’s perspective with “good grace.” He highlighted that constructive engagement is essential for fostering trust, stating, “When partners are able to express and constructively engage their differences, that’s when you can also look for new opportunities and for progress.”

The discussions with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Sa’ar were described as “very candid” and “frank exchanges.” Dr. Balakrishnan acknowledged the differences in views but maintained that the long-standing relationship between Singapore and Israel allowed for open dialogue.

Reflecting on the situation, he remarked on the changed atmosphere since his last visit in March 2024, when the conflict was more intense. “If I compare today to March, I am just that significantly more hopeful,” he said. He pointed out that all conflicts must ultimately be resolved not on the battlefield but at the negotiating table.

As the international community watches closely, Singapore’s proactive stance on humanitarian aid and diplomatic engagement may serve as a model for addressing the complex challenges in the region. The call for increased support to Gaza underscores a critical need for collaboration and dialogue in pursuit of peace.