Singapore has urged Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA) to return to direct negotiations, with Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan describing the two-state solution as the “only viable pathway” towards lasting peace.
Dr Balakrishnan spoke separately with Palestinian Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin on 9 September 2025, and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Moshe Sa’ar on 10 September, according to a statement released by Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) on 10 September.
In both calls, described by MFA as “candid and open discussions”, Dr Balakrishnan underscored Singapore’s “grave concern” over the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
He urged for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages.
The minister reiterated Singapore’s position that a negotiated two-state solution, in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions, is the only comprehensive, just, and durable way to resolve the conflict.
During his conversation with Dr Aghabekian, Dr Balakrishnan reaffirmed Singapore’s longstanding support for the Palestinian right to self-determination and statehood.
He highlighted Singapore’s ongoing humanitarian contributions to Palestinians in Gaza, which include nine tranches of aid worth over US$22 million and multiple humanitarian airdrops.
The most recent airdrop involved a Republic of Singapore Air Force C-130 aircraft deployed to Jordan to deliver relief supplies.
Dr Aghabekian expressed appreciation for Singapore’s assistance, including its support for the PA’s capacity-building efforts.
These initiatives encompass the US$10 million Enhanced Technical Assistance Package, a joint programme with Japan that trains Palestinian Civil Police officers, and a newly launched Young Leaders Programme in public administration and governance.
In July, Singapore envoy Kevin Cheok confirmed that Singapore is prepared in principle to recognise the State of Palestine, with the key consideration being that such a move should support progress towards peace and a negotiated two-state solution.
In his discussion with Mr Sa’ar, Dr Balakrishnan conveyed Singapore’s concerns about Israel’s intensifying military operations in Gaza.
While acknowledging Israel’s right to self-defence following the Hamas terror attacks of 7 October 2023, he cautioned that “excessive military action” has worsened civilian suffering.
He urged Israel to facilitate the immediate, swift, and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid.
He also “strongly urged” Israel to refrain from unilateral measures that could undermine the two-state solution.
Singapore further criticised Israel’s air strike on Doha on 9 September 2025.
The MFA said the attack violated Qatar’s sovereignty and threatened ongoing ceasefire negotiations and hostage-release efforts.
In an earlier statement, MFA described the strike as a “blatant violation of the sovereignty of Qatar” and an “egregious and dangerous action”.
Israel said the operation, conducted on 9 September, targeted senior Hamas leaders.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office declared it was “a wholly independent Israeli operation”, stating: “Israel initiated it, Israel conducted it, and Israel takes full responsibility.”
Qatar denounced the attack as a “cowardly” violation of international law.
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