Singapore won’t let Israel-Gaza war divide multiracial society, compromise security: Lawrence Wong

Lawrence Wong, Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister, has stated that the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza will not be allowed to divide Singapore's diverse population. Amidst pressure from certain groups and social media platforms urging the government to condemn one side over the other, Wong emphasised that Singapore must maintain a principled stance in accordance with international law and in support of global peace and security. This was discussed during a lengthy parliamentary session dedicated to the conflict.

Wong highlighted that Singapore has consistently voted in favour of numerous Palestinian-related resolutions at the United Nations (UN) over the years. He cited instances where Singapore criticised Israel's settlement activities in the West Bank and voted against a UN resolution to declare unilateral US recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Wong stated that such actions by Israel undermine the two-state solution, contributing to the increasing sentiment among Palestinians that violence is their only recourse. He urged the international community to provide Palestinians with reasons to believe otherwise.

Recently, Singapore voted in support of a UN resolution calling for an immediate and sustained humanitarian ceasefire and aid for the Israel-Gaza war. During the parliamentary debate, Wong explained Singapore's clear and uncompromising stance in condemning the terrorist acts committed by Hamas when it attacked Israelis on October 7. He acknowledged the historical grievances of the Palestinian people, but asserted that there could be no justification for such attacks and that they must be unequivocally condemned. Wong emphasised that it is in Singapore's national interest to maintain this stance, as compromising on it would jeopardise the country's own security.