Civilian infrastructure, medical workers in Gaza must be protected: Vivian

Minister urges Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, and Hamas to free hostages

- Hariz Baharudin

Singapore remains gravely concerned about the resumption of hostilities in Gaza, said Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, calling for civilian infrastructure and medical workers to be protected amid the worsening situation.

In a written parliamentary reply to questions from five MPs on April 8, Dr Balakrishnan also urged Israel to facilitate the resumption of humanitarian aid to Gaza without using it as a "bargaining chip", and called on Hamas to release all remaining hostages.

Dr Balakrishnan noted that the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza has worsened, as aid has not been allowed in since March 2.

He stressed how Singapore has consistently called for all parties in the conflict to comply with international law, and ensure that civilians are kept out of harm's way.

"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.

Singapore also calls on Hamas to release all remaining hostages "immediately and unconditionally", he said.

Dr Balakrishnan added: "We urge all parties to resume negotiations and make progress towards a permanent ceasefire."

His remarks came in response to questions from both sides of the House on the implications of renewed hostilities between Israel and Hamas.

The conflict in the Middle East has flared up again after a ceasefire broke down in early March, leading to Israeli strikes that have reportedly destroyed hospitals and killed humanitarian workers.