Singapore has contributed US$500,000 (S$652,000) to the World Food Programme (WFP) to support emergency relief efforts in Gaza, marking the latest in a series of humanitarian initiatives by the Republic to help civilians affected by the ongoing conflict.
Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan presented the cheque on behalf of the Singapore Government at the Republic’s representative office in Ramallah on Nov 4, commending WFP staff for their dedication and courage in delivering aid amid danger.
“You bring not only food, but dignity and hope that they are not forgotten,” Dr Balakrishnan said. “The WFP and other key relief agencies will continue to be vital, even as the world prepares for the immense task of rebuilding Gaza once a permanent ceasefire is achieved.”
Dr Balakrishnan is currently visiting the Palestinian Territories and Israel following the implementation of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. He said the agreement offered a rare “glimmer of hope” for Gazans to rebuild their homes and futures.
“The suffering of civilians in Gaza – especially women and children – has gone on for far too long,” he said. “Singapore may be 8,000km away, but our hearts are not distant.”
At the handover ceremony, Ms Shireen Shelleh, honorary director of the Singapore Representative Office in Ramallah, said the donation sent a strong message that Singaporeans stand in solidarity with Gaza’s people.
“The situation remains devastating, but every bit of support helps Gazans rebuild their lives,” she said.
The ceremony was attended by Palestinian Authority (PA) officials including Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian and General Personnel Council chairman Musa Abu Zaid, as well as WFP Palestine head of programmes Jane Waite, who received the cheque.
Singapore’s latest donation follows more than $24 million in humanitarian aid previously contributed by the Singapore Government and its citizens for Gaza relief.
Dr Balakrishnan reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to helping Palestinians build a stronger future, including through capacity-building under the Enhanced Technical Assistance Package (ETAP).
Under the S$10 million programme, more than 800 Palestinian officials have been trained in Singapore in governance, public health, and economic management. Two new courses — on digital economy and digital entrepreneurship — will be introduced in 2026, alongside earlier announced initiatives on community policing and leadership development.
Dr Balakrishnan reiterated Singapore’s support for a two-state solution, consistent with UN Security Council resolutions, calling it the only viable path toward lasting peace.
“As a friend to both sides, Singapore hopes one day to see Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security,” he said.
Before the ceremony, Dr Balakrishnan met Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa and other senior PA officials. He is also scheduled to hold meetings with Israeli counterparts later this week.
