Singapore: In a move that underscores its growing engagement in Middle East diplomacy, Singapore announced on Monday that it will impose targeted sanctions on leaders of Israeli settler groups and expressed its readiness to recognize a Palestinian state under appropriate conditions. The announcement was made by Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan in a parliamentary address, highlighting Singapore’s continued commitment to a negotiated two-state solution to the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Minister Balakrishnan criticized Israeli politicians advocating for the annexation of parts of the West Bank and Gaza, territories widely considered occupied under international law. He specifically referenced the controversial E1 settlement project, warning that such initiatives fragment the West Bank and seriously undermine the viability of a two-state solution. “Actions that create new facts on the ground obstruct peace and deepen mistrust,” Balakrishnan stated, urging Israel to halt settlement expansion immediately.
While details of the sanctions were not immediately disclosed, the Foreign Minister indicated that additional information would be shared in the coming weeks. He emphasized that Singapore’s recognition of a Palestinian state is contingent upon the emergence of a responsible and capable Palestinian government one that recognizes Israel’s right to exist and renounces violence and terrorism. “Recognition is not a question of ‘if’ but ‘when,’” he said, underscoring the principled yet conditional nature of Singapore’s stance.
Singapore’s announcement aligns with a broader international trend toward increased recognition of Palestinian aspirations for statehood. In recent weeks, countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia formally recognized Palestine, citing humanitarian concerns and frustration over the ongoing impasse in negotiations. A world summit convened by France and Saudi Arabia is expected to further consolidate international support for Palestinian statehood, despite opposition from Israel and the United States.
The development is particularly notable given Singapore’s historically close diplomatic and military ties with Israel since its independence in 1965. Nevertheless, the city-state has consistently supported United Nations resolutions advocating Palestinian statehood, reflecting its commitment to international law, human rights, and peaceful conflict resolution. Balakrishnan reiterated that a just and lasting solution requires a negotiated settlement resulting in two states Israel and Palestine coexisting in peace, security, and dignity.
The sanctions and Singapore’s conditional support for Palestinian statehood mark a significant moment in the city-state’s foreign policy. Analysts note that it reflects a careful balance between maintaining historical relations with Israel and affirming support for international norms and humanitarian principles. By taking this step, Singapore positions itself as a proactive actor in the global effort to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and as a voice advocating for dialogue, negotiation, and justice in the region.