Singapore’s recognition of a Palestinian state ‘not a question of if, but when’: Faishal Ibrahim

The recognition of a Palestinian state is what Singapore hopes for, and “is not a question of if, but when”, said Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim.

- Zhaki Abdullah Correspondent

He gave the assurance in Parliament on Sept 22 that Singapore is working towards recognising Palestine as a state.

“That has always been Singapore’s position to ensure enduring peace for the people of Israel and Palestine. This is not a question of if, but when,” he added in his ministerial statement on Singaporeans’ response to the situation in the Middle East.

While Singapore has yet to recognise Palestine as a state, it is not a silent onlooker to the tragedy unfolding in Gaza, Associate Professor Faishal added.

He pointed to efforts to intensify humanitarian assistance to the Palestinians in Gaza, and to continue to provide practical support for the Palestinian Authority’s capacity-building efforts to prepare for eventual statehood.

“We may not recognise Palestine today, but I would like to make clear to Singaporeans that we have not been — and will not be - silent onlookers to the tragedy unfolding in Gaza,” he said.

He noted that Malay/Muslims here are especially affected by the conflict, as the Palestinian cause holds “profound meaning” to the community.

“But I believe I speak on behalf of all Singaporeans, not just the Malay/Muslims, that we are horrified and saddened by the latest developments in the Middle East,” he said.