Singapore's Support in Humanitarian Aid for Critical Food Security Situation in Gaza Conflict and Review on Stance on Palestinian Statehood
Ministry of Foreign AffairsSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns inquiries from several Members of Parliament regarding Singapore’s position on recognizing Palestinian statehood, the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, and diplomatic efforts to protect civilians and essential services. MPs also asked for assessments on ceasefire prospects, the potential for increased rebuilding assistance, and measures to maintain social cohesion in Singapore against the backdrop of the conflict. Furthermore, queries were raised about ensuring international law compliance and strategic consolidation of relief efforts through an inter-ministry taskforce. In response, Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan indicated that the various concerns and policy details would be addressed collectively in a subsequent Ministerial Statement. The Minister obtained consent to answer all 13 oral and written questions on the Middle East situation simultaneously during that statement.
Transcript
1 Mr Vikram Nair asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs with countries like the UK, France and Australia announcing plans to recognise Palestinian statehood at the UN General Assembly in September, whether Singapore is also reconsidering its position on the issue.
2 Mr Christopher de Souza asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) what additional humanitarian assistance is Singapore providing or considering to address the critical food security situation affecting children in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict; and (b) what measures are Singapore or Singapore-based organisations supporting at the international level to facilitate the safe and unimpeded delivery of food and medical supplies to children and civilians in need.
3 Dr Charlene Chen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) how has Singapore conveyed its concerns regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza to the Israeli government; (b) what specific messages have been raised regarding the protection of civilians and the continuation of essential services, such as water and electricity; and (c) what is Israel's response to Singapore’s views.
4 Mr Kwek Hian Chuan Henry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) whether there is an update on Singapore’s (i) diplomatic efforts in relation to the current crisis in Gaza and (ii) humanitarian assistance rendered and obstacles faced in its delivery; (b) what is the Government’s assessment of the prospects for a ceasefire; and (c) whether Singapore will consider increasing funds set aside for technical assistance for rebuilding once stability is achieved.
5 Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs how is Singapore working with the international community to ensure Israel abides by international law as its war against Hamas intensifies, impacting other countries in the Middle East like the recent attack in Qatar on 9 September 2025.
6 Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) whether the Government will consider convening an inter-ministry taskforce or involving Singaporeans to consolidate relief, rebuilding, and restructuring efforts for Gaza in a strategic manner; and (b) what other initiatives can be piloted by the Government to safeguard harmony and cohesion amongst different communities in Singapore, against the backdrop of the Gaza conflict.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs (Dr Vivian Balakrishnan): Mr Speaker, I will be making a Ministerial Statement later on the situation in the Middle East. I seek your approval to answer all 13 Parliamentary Questions which have been filed on the same subject. These would be Question Nos 1 to 6 for oral answer and Question Nos 26 to 32 for written answer.
Mr Speaker: I give my consent.