'Our position is clear', S'pore supports Palestinians' right to homeland: Vivian Balakrishnan on Gaza conflict

"Our position is clear," said Singapore's Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan on Singapore reiterated proposal of a negotiated two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

He was asked in parliament on Feb. 28 by Member of Parliament (MP) Gerald Giam whether Singapore has taken a position on the unilateral proposals by the U.S. for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that involve the forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza, and the key principles underpinning this position.

Singapore consistently supports the right of the Palestinian people to a homeland of their own: Vivian

Vivian said that Singapore has consistently supported the right of the Palestinian people to a homeland of their own.

Singapore's position is this is the only viable path for achieving a comprehensive, just, and durable solution to this long-standing and tragic Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

He reiterated Singapore's proposal of a negotiated two-state solution, in particular, negotiations between Palestinians and the Israelis.

"This principled position is consistent with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions," he added.

In a follow-up question, Giam asked if Singapore sought clarifications on the U.S. intentions on its recent proposal as expressed by President Donald Trump, and if would reflect the concerns of Singaporeans with the U.S.

"No, we have not been consulted by the U.S. on this specific proposal that President Trump announced some time ago, but our position is clear," said Vivian.

"I've just stated it just now. In fact, I've stated it repeatedly over the years, and it is an unchanged, principled position," said Vivian. "Everyone is aware of our position on this."

Singapore sent its seventh tranche of humanitarian aid in mid-February this year, consisting of nearly nine tons of medical, food, and hygiene supplies from various Non-Governmental Organisations and the Ministry of Health.

Since October 2023, Singapore has delivered more than S$19 million worth of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Top image via Omar Al-Qattaa/UNICEF website and MDDI/YouTube