SINGAPORE: The Israel-Hamas conflict is a reminder for Singapore that it has national interests at stake, said Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, as he spelt out the principles underpinning the government's position on what he described as an "unfolding tragedy".
Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan speaking in parliament on Nov 6, 2023.SINGAPORE: The Israel-Hamas conflict is a reminder for Singapore that it has national interests at stake, said Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, as he spelt out the principles underpinning the government's position on what he described as an"unfolding tragedy".
Dr Balakrishnan added that all countries must ensure that if military action is taken in exercising this right of self-defence, they abide by principles of"necessity and proportionality". It also condemned those responsible for the terrorist acts and violations of international law, and called for all parties to ensure the safety and security of civilians, including the release of all hostages.
Militant group Hamas launched raids into Israel on Oct 7, killing about 1,400 people and capturing more than 200 hostages. It also expressed “grave concern” over the latest escalation of violence since the attack by Hamas on Israel and the “grave deterioration” of the situation in the region.Singapore continues to uphold its"long-standing and consistent" position for a negotiated two-state solution, consistent with relevant UN Security Council resolutions, said Dr Balakrishnan.
He added:"It is our sincere hope that, over time, both sides will muster the political will ... They need the political leadership with the conviction, the courage and the political capital, which they are willing to expend in order to make a two-state solution a reality. And if they don't, then they are doomed to repeated cycles of violence."
The Singapore government has contributed seed funding of about S$300,000 to the Singapore Red Cross, which is working with its partners to support the relief effort in Gaza, including the Palestine Red Crescent Society and the Egyptian Red Crescent Society, he noted.
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