Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan and SMS Zaqy Mohamad, along with Egyptian Ambassador-designate to Singapore Ahmad Mostafa Abdelaal Mohamed, Singapore’s Representative to the Palestinian Authority Hawazi Daipi, senior Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Officers, and representatives from participating NGOs were present at Changi Air Base (East) to send off the RSAF mission crew.
Photo Credits: Ministry of Defence

Singapore responds to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, deploying RSAF aircraft with a S$7 million aid package comprising medical supplies, blankets, and more

Singapore, November 30, 2023 – In a compassionate response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Singaporeans have rallied together, contributing over S$7 million in cash and in-kind donations to support relief efforts. Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, the Singapore Government has taken swift action by deploying a Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) aircraft to deliver crucial aid.

The RSAF Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) carrying humanitarian assistance, including medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, blankets, sanitation items, water filters, and food, departed from Changi Air Base (East) to Egypt in the early hours of November 30, 2023. This coordinated effort involves contributions from the Ministry of Health (MOH), the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) such as the Singapore Red Cross, Mercy Relief, and Relief Singapore.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs worked closely with the Egyptian Red Crescent to identify the most needed supplies. The SAF’s Changi Regional Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Coordination Centre (RHCC) played a central role in coordinating and consolidating aid from various agencies. This marks Singapore’s second tranche of humanitarian assistance for Gaza.

Photo Caption: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan and Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad sent off the RSAF mission crew at Changi Air Base (East).
Photo Credits: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Senior Minister of State (SMS) for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad, and other dignitaries were present at Changi Air Base (East) to see off the RSAF crew. Upon arrival in Egypt, Singapore’s Ambassador to Egypt Dominic Goh will witness the handover of the humanitarian package to the Egyptian Red Crescent.

Minister Balakrishnan expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from Singaporeans and emphasized the severe humanitarian crisis faced by civilians in Gaza. SMS Zaqy highlighted the collaboration between the government and NGOs, underscoring the mission’s importance and the RSAF’s role in delivering aid.

The Singapore Red Cross, actively involved in relief efforts, sees the deployment of water filters as a crucial step to provide clean drinking water in Gaza. Ms Rebekah Lim, Head of Global Engagement at SRC, commended the collaboration with authorities and humanitarian partners for facilitating the delivery of assistance.

Singapore reaffirms its commitment to work closely with humanitarian partners to extend additional assistance to affected communities. The government urges all parties involved to ensure the immediate, safe, and unhindered provision of humanitarian aid to civilians across Gaza.

Source – MFA