Shanmugam on Israel-Hamas conflict: Singapore must never let external events affect 'precious peace'

SINGAPORE —Amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Singapore's Home Affairs and Law Minister K.Shanmugam has stressed the importance of not letting the situation disrupt the nation's internal peace.

Addressing the local press on Thursday (12 October), the minister stressed the need to preserve racial and religious peace in the country.

Shanmugam expressed concerns that the ongoing conflict, which began on 7 October when the militant group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in civilian casualties, could potentially have an effect on Singapore's racial and religious harmony.

"We must, in Singapore, maintain our racial and religious peace. We have to stay vigilant. Terrorist groups will try and exploit such conflicts," Shanmugam said.

In response to Hamas' attack, Israel laid siege to Gaza, resulting in thousands of casualties and the destruction of entire neighbourhoods.

While acknowledging that there is going to be "a very severe reaction" to Hamas' attack — as Israel would react with its "full might" — the minister also stressed the importance of Israel adhering to international law and rules of war, echoing similar sentiments expressed by other nations.

Condemning Hamas' 'massive terrorist attack' on Israel

Describing Hamas' initial assault on Israel as a "massive terrorist attack", Shanmugam strongly emphasised that "in no circumstances" can these attacks be accepted.

"Hamas' attack on Israel, attacking and massacring civilians, is a massive terrorist attack," the minister said.

He also condemned the horrifying nature of the violence, including "the kidnapping and unjustified murder of children".

"This extreme violence must be condemned in clear, unequivocal terms," Shanmugam said.

Singapore has previously expressed hope for both Israelis and Palestinians to engage in direct negotiations for a two-state solution, promoting peaceful coexistence.

Shanmugam reiterated the nation's support for the two-state solution, clarifying that his current remarks primarily focus on the security concerns relevant to Singapore.

He further stressed the possibility of holding "very strong views" about the ongoing events in the region, acknowledging the hardships Palestinians have faced over the years.

"It is possible to deplore how the Palestinians have been treated over the years. It is possible to deeply sympathise with the plight of the Palestinians, and yet still unequivocally condemn the terrorist attacks carried out in Israel," he said.

Shanmugam also added that such atrocities cannot be justified by any rationale, whether stemming from fundamental problems or historical grievances.

Singapore's strong stance against extremism and violence

The minister also highlighted Singapore's stance against extremism and violence, saying, "Our position has been made very clear over the years. We act against anyone who promotes or espouses extremism and violence."

He referenced instances of Singaporeans detained under the Internal Security Act for supporting Hamas or planning attacks, such as a knife attack against Jews at a synagogue in Singapore.

Shanmugam reassured that Singapore had avoided destabilisation caused by international events in the past, affirming the nation's commitment to maintaining peace within its borders.

He also mentioned increased security measures, including stepped-up patrols and security reassessment for potential targets, to address any potential threats.

"Our security agencies are watching the situation closely. For operational reasons, I cannot tell you the exact plans. But, additional measures have been taken.

"There will be stepped-up patrols at some events and places. Emergency forces are always on alert, to respond to incidents. Places which are possible targets have had their security re-assessed. And for places at higher risk, we are increasing security. ICA has also stepped up its measures," he added.

Shanmugam acknowledged the country's strong foundation of harmony and trust among racial groups, stating, "There is a lot of mutual respect and trust between religious and racial groups, and Singaporeans strongly value our racial and religious diversity and harmony."

He also cited a 2022 Pew study indicating that the majority of religious Singaporeans are "very tolerant" of other perspectives.

"For example, most say that many religions can be true, and 60 per cent said they have a personal connection to religions other than their own. It is not something you see in many other countries."

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