Singapore's Diplomatic Relations with Israel and US Amidst Escalating Middle East Tensions

5 Mr Christopher de Souza asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs how is Singapore continuing ties with Israel and the US amidst the escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan: Singapore maintains excellent ties with Israel, the Palestinian Authority, our partners in the Middle East as well as the United States. These relationships are based on mutual respect, longstanding engagement and mutually beneficial cooperation in many fields.

Singapore has had candid constructive conversations with all our partners. On Gaza, we have expressed grave concern over the dire humanitarian situation, called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the immediate unconditional release of all hostages. We have reiterated our view that the only viable pathway to a comprehensive, just, and durable solution to the long-standing conflict is a negotiated two-state solution, consistent with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.