Singapore condemns mass starvation in Gaza, cites violations of international humanitarian law
Singapore has issued its strongest condemnation yet of Israel’s actions in Gaza, stating that mass starvation from blocked aid violates international humanitarian law and calling for an immediate ceasefire.
- Singapore described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as a violation of international humanitarian law.
- The MFA condemned Israel’s restrictions on aid and called for an immediate ceasefire.
- WHO reported dozens of starvation deaths, warning actual figures could be higher.
- Singapore urged Israel to lift all aid restrictions and allow UNRWA to resume operations.
Singapore delivered its sharpest criticism to date of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, declaring that the mass starvation caused by restricted humanitarian access constitutes a breach of international humanitarian law.
In a statement released on 24 July 2025, Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) described the suffering of civilians in Gaza as “unconscionable”, citing the “excessive Israeli military reaction” to the 7 October 2023 attacks by Hamas.
The MFA stated, “Israel must comply with its international humanitarian obligations.” It added that the denial of humanitarian aid had resulted in widespread starvation and a critical shortage of essential medical services.
The statement went on to describe reports of civilians being shot while attempting to access food as “shocking,” further affirming, “This is a violation of international humanitarian law.”
The ministry insisted that all civilians, particularly those accessing aid, must be protected and underscored that permanent forced displacement also violates international humanitarian norms.
Singapore urged the Israeli government to immediately lift all restrictions on humanitarian assistance and to allow the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to resume its operations in Gaza.
The remarks came a day after World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the starvation in Gaza as “man-made”, linking it to the ongoing Israeli blockade and restrictions on aid convoys.
WHO has reported that at least 21 children have died from malnutrition in 2025 alone, with the organisation warning that the actual number is likely higher. Gaza’s health ministry has stated that over 100 individuals have died from starvation since the beginning of the conflict.
Israel has maintained that the restrictions on aid are necessary to prevent supplies from being diverted to militant groups. It also asserts that it has facilitated the delivery of adequate food assistance, though multiple international agencies have contested this claim.
Singapore’s latest remarks represent the first time it has formally categorised the situation as a direct breach of international law. Earlier in May, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong had suggested that the restrictions on aid “may be” a breach, but Thursday’s statement made the government’s position explicit.
The MFA reiterated Singapore’s call for an immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas. The group captured numerous individuals during its coordinated attack on southern Israel in October 2023, which resulted in extensive casualties and provoked Israel’s large-scale military response.
Singapore also reiterated its long-held support for a two-state solution, describing it as the only viable route for Israelis and Palestinians to coexist with peace, security, and dignity.
“The current trajectory of events will only make this eventual goal even more difficult to achieve, and condemn both Israelis and Palestinians to an endless cycle of mutual hatred and violence,” the MFA stated.
Since the conflict reignited in October 2023, Gaza has experienced severe destruction, widespread internal displacement, and an escalating humanitarian crisis.
Multiple international organisations, including Médecins Sans Frontières, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and the International Committee of the Red Cross, have also raised alarm over the deteriorating conditions.
Singapore has historically maintained a balanced diplomatic stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, supporting Israel’s right to security while advocating for Palestinian statehood and humanitarian rights.
However, the intensifying humanitarian crisis appears to have prompted a more assertive posture from Singapore, aligning it more closely with international bodies pressing for de-escalation and urgent relief access.
The United Nations continues to call for safe humanitarian corridors and the resumption of aid operations by UNRWA and other agencies, with growing concern over long-term regional instability.
