As concerned citizens of the world, we are deeply distressed by what has transpired in Palestine over the past week. Our hearts go out to the victims of senseless violence.
As Singaporeans, we take heart in Minister Shanmugam’s affirmation that it is “possible to deplore” how Palestinians have been treated over the years and to “deeply sympathise” with the Palestinian cause. We are further encouraged by his and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ call for Israel to act in accordance with international law.
We strongly condemn the act of bombings of civilians in Gaza, and the mass killings of innocent men, women and children. Most Palestinians are just ordinary civilians who are trying to live their lives, and they, just like any other person in the world, are entitled to the basic right to live. In accordance with the principle of self-determination as enshrined in the UN Charter, Palestinians are entitled to their right to statehood.
As the rally in Singapore has been called off, we are relying on our leaders to be our voices. We call for an immediate ceasefire, and for a lasting political solution to be negotiated. Specifically, we call for Singapore to:
- Reiterate the need for Israel to abide by international law
- Condemn the killings of innocent Palestinians
- Reiterate the call for a two-state solution and reaffirm support for Palestinian statehood
- Call for an end to occupation, blockade, and the denial of basic human rights and essentials such as water and electricity for the Palestinians, which is the only way for true political peace to be achieved.
We believe that these calls are in line with the government’s own foreign policy objectives and its longstanding position on the conflict.
We also recognise the need to engage in respectful discussions on the issue, as urged by the police and NParks, and will continue to do so in a manner befitting the multiracial and multireligious makeup of our country.
UPDATE: PLEASE NOTE THAT DONATIONS ON THIS WEBSITE WILL ONLY GO TOWARDS PUBLICISING THIS PETITION! THE MONEY DOES NOT GO TOWARDS AID IN GAZA.
To donate to an organisation that is currently actively working on the ground in Gaza, please direct your funds to the RLA Foundation Singapore, which is collaborating with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
Donate here: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=349051190843177&set=pcb.349051230843173
Read more here: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/s-pore-charity-to-raise-funds-for-affected-communities-in-gaza