Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasizes the need for unity and vigilance in light of the Israel-Hamas conflict, highlighting Singapore’s stance on the matter.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Lawrence Wong, addressed the Israel-Hamas conflict during a session in Parliament on November 6, 2023. He began by acknowledging the distressing events unfolding in the Middle East and emphasized the critical need for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza while minimizing civilian casualties.
DPM Wong elucidated the deep-rooted complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, tracing its origins back decades, if not centuries. He emphasized that the struggle extends beyond religious lines, encompassing political disputes over territory and self-determination. The conflict’s implications reach far beyond the immediate parties involved, impacting the broader power balance in the Middle East.
He further shed light on the role of regional players, particularly Iran, in supporting militant groups like Hamas. DPM Wong noted the timing of Hamas’ attacks, strategically coinciding with Israel’s diplomatic efforts in the region. While recognizing Israel’s right to self-defense, he voiced concern over the toll on civilians in Gaza due to the military response.
DPM Wong stressed Singapore’s commitment to a two-state solution, advocating for the rights of both Palestinians and Israelis. He underscored the necessity for all parties to abide by international humanitarian law to maintain moral high ground.
Turning to Singapore’s domestic front, DPM Wong emphasized the importance of social cohesion in the face of external conflicts. He cited instances of hate speech and religiously motivated attacks globally, underscoring the need for Singaporeans to nurture unity and trust among diverse religious and ethnic communities.
Regarding economic and security implications, DPM Wong assured that the government is closely monitoring the situation. While the direct impact on Singapore’s economy is currently limited, preparations are underway to address potential uncertainties, particularly if the conflict escalates regionally.
In conclusion, DPM Wong called for unity, emphasizing the shared humanity that transcends divisions. He highlighted the exchange of letters between religious leaders in Singapore as an example of peaceful coexistence. He urged all Singaporeans to cherish and protect the nation’s hard-won peace and harmony.
In response to the Leader of the Opposition, Pritam Singh, DPM Wong expressed appreciation for the assurance of posting transcripts online. He reiterated the importance of a clear stance from the Workers’ Party condemning acts of terrorism by Hamas and emphasized the need for national unity, particularly on matters of national security.
