Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore

Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Minister of Foreign Affairs Israel Katz and Minister Benny Gantz and former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett during his working visit to Israel.

Minister Balakrishnan expressed Singapore’s sympathies to all the families affected by the Hamas attacks on 7 October 2023. He reiterated Singapore’s condemnation of the acts of terror and called for the safe, unconditional and immediate release of all civilian hostages from Gaza.

During his meetings with Israeli leaders, Minister Balakrishnan expressed Singapore’s deep concern with the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. He called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to allow for the swift and unhindered delivery of aid to Gaza, especially through land based routes. Singapore will continue to work with regional partners including Jordan and Israel to facilitate the Republic of Singapore Air Force's airdrop mission to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Minister Balakrishnan reiterated Singapore’s view that Israel’s military actions in Gaza has gone too far. He called on Israel to do its utmost to protect the safety and security of civilians.

Minister Balakrishnan underscored Singapore’s support for a negotiated two-state solution consistent with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. This is the only viable pathway towards a comprehensive, just and durable peace between the Israelis and Palestinians.

Minister Balakrishnan and the Members of Parliament separately met with Members of Israel’s Knesset including those from the National Unity, United Arab List and Labour parties.

Minister Balakrishnan departs Israel today for the United Arab Emirates.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
20 MARCH 2024

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan and Members of Parliament during call on Israeli President Isaac Herzog, 20 March 2024