Singapore Voices Grave Concerns Over Renewed Gaza Conflict as Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

Singapore has expressed profound alarm over the resurgence of violence in Gaza, as Israeli strikes resumed on March 18, 2025, following the collapse of a two-month ceasefire with Hamas. Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, in a parliamentary address on April 8, underscored the worsening humanitarian crisis, urging the protection of civilian infrastructure and the immediate resumption of aid, while calling for Hamas to release all remaining hostages. With civilian casualties mounting and aid blocked since early March, Singapore’s response reflects a broader regional and international concern over the escalating conflict.

Renewed Hostilities and a Dire Humanitarian Situation

The latest chapter of violence in Gaza began after a fragile ceasefire disintegrated, prompting Israel to launch significant military operations across the region. Reports indicate that hospitals have been destroyed and humanitarian workers killed, with a particularly harrowing incident on March 23, when Israeli forces reportedly shot and killed 15 Palestinian emergency workers from organizations including the Red Cross and the United Nations. Autopsies suggest the shootings were deliberate, intensifying global outrage over the targeting of non-combatants.

In the northern Gaza Strip, scenes of desperation have become commonplace. On April 8, 2025, displaced Palestinians lined up for food at the Jabalia camp, a stark reminder of the acute shortages gripping the territory. With humanitarian aid deliveries stalled since March 2, the population faces unprecedented challenges, from food insecurity to lack of medical care. Dr. Balakrishnan highlighted the internal displacement of Palestinians and the mounting civilian death toll as key concerns for Singapore, a nation that has long advocated for adherence to international humanitarian law.

In his written reply to parliamentary questions from five Members of Parliament (MPs), the Foreign Minister stressed the need to shield civilian infrastructure, particularly medical facilities, from the conflict. “Civilian infrastructure including medical facilities, as well as medical workers, must be accorded due protection. We call on Israel to facilitate the resumption of critical life-saving humanitarian aid to Gaza. Such aid must not be used as a bargaining chip” said Dr. Balakrishnan. He also reiterated Singapore’s call for Hamas to release all hostages “immediately and unconditionally,” emphasizing that all parties must return to the negotiating table to work toward a permanent ceasefire.

Singapore’s Humanitarian and Diplomatic Efforts

Beyond rhetoric, Singapore is actively exploring ways to contribute to relief efforts in Gaza. Dr. Balakrishnan revealed that the Republic is collaborating with regional partners to assess the feasibility of deploying additional medical assistance through the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). The Defence Ministry had previously signaled plans to bolster medical support, though specifics remain under review due to safety concerns for personnel operating in a volatile region.

Responding to a query from Ms. Nadia Ahmad Samdin of Ang Mo Kio GRC about the safety of Singaporean aid workers, the Foreign Minister noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has maintained close contact with the Mercy Relief team, which conducted a mission to the West Bank in March 2025. “I commend them for their efforts to help Palestinians on behalf of Singapore” he said, praising the team’s expertise in delivering aid under high-risk conditions.

Further questions from MPs, including Workers’ Party member Dennis Tan of Hougang, probed the viability of transporting Palestinian patients requiring complex medical care to Singapore for treatment. Dr. Balakrishnan clarified that no such requests have been received to date, but any future appeals would be meticulously evaluated, considering medical risks associated with long-distance transport and available treatment options. This cautious approach underscores Singapore’s commitment to balancing humanitarian intent with practical constraints.

Despite Israeli restrictions on aid entering Gaza, Singapore continues to explore alternative channels for assistance in partnership with Middle Eastern allies. Dr. Balakrishnan affirmed the Republic’s readiness to support post-conflict recovery efforts alongside the United Nations and regional actors, acknowledging that Gaza’s reconstruction needs will be immense. “The needs in Gaza will be significant and Singapore will do our part to help” he assured parliament.

A Call for Ceasefire and a Two-State Solution

Singapore’s diplomatic stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains rooted in its support for a negotiated two-state solution, consistent with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. MPs such as Faisal Manap of Aljunied GRC and Dr. Wan Rizal of Jalan Besar GRC raised questions about Singapore’s role in ceasefire efforts, to which Dr. Balakrishnan reiterated the nation’s commitment to upholding international law and protecting civilians. He emphasized the importance of avoiding unilateral actions that could derail peace prospects.

While Singapore pledges to support UN General Assembly resolutions aligning with its principles, Dr. Balakrishnan was candid about the Republic’s limited influence over the conflict’s outcome. “It falls ultimately on the leaders on both sides to find the political will, courage, and imagination to resume negotiations to resolving this longstanding conflict, difficult as it may be” he said. This pragmatic acknowledgment highlights the complexity of a decades-old struggle that continues to evade resolution despite international mediation.

Regionally, Singapore aligns with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), whose foreign ministers earlier in 2025 reaffirmed their support for the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to a homeland. This collective stance amplifies Singapore’s voice within a broader coalition advocating for peace and humanitarian relief in the Middle East.

Community Support and the Path Forward

Dr. Balakrishnan also took the opportunity to thank Singaporeans for their generosity in contributing to humanitarian causes. He encouraged continued donations through reputable organizations such as the Singapore Red Cross and the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation, both of which have established networks to deliver aid effectively on the ground. “We encourage everyone to continue supporting local fundraising efforts by reputable organizations” he urged, signaling the importance of community involvement in sustaining relief efforts.

As the conflict in Gaza shows no immediate signs of abating, Singapore’s multifaceted response—combining diplomatic advocacy, humanitarian aid, and regional collaboration—reflects a small but determined nation’s effort to address a global crisis. The Republic’s insistence on protecting civilians and facilitating aid echoes a universal call for compassion amid violence. Yet, with hostilities persisting and the humanitarian situation deteriorating, the road to a lasting ceasefire remains fraught with challenges. How the international community, including Singapore, navigates these obstacles will be crucial in determining whether peace can finally take root in a region long scarred by conflict.