The Republic pledges US$500,000 to support emergency food aid and future rebuilding efforts in Gaza.

Singapore has reaffirmed its humanitarian commitment by donating US$500,000 (S$652,000) to the World Food Programme (WFP) for emergency operations in Gaza. The contribution, presented on November 4, 2025, underscores the Republic’s ongoing efforts to ease the suffering of civilians and support long-term peacebuilding in the region.

Singapore’s Humanitarian Effort

The cheque handover ceremony took place at Singapore’s Representative Office in Ramallah, witnessed by Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, who led the Republic’s delegation to the Palestinian Territories and Israel. The cheque was symbolically handed over by Hawazi Daipi, Singapore’s Representative to the Palestinian Authority (PA), to Jane Waite, Head of Programmes for WFP Palestine.

Dr Balakrishnan expressed Singapore’s “deep appreciation” to WFP staff for their “extraordinary courage and humanity” in delivering aid amid danger. He emphasized that Singapore’s support reflects not just a donation, but also a shared belief in restoring “dignity and hope” to Gazans.

A Glimmer of Hope Amid Ceasefire

Dr Balakrishnan’s visit followed the implementation of the first phase of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. He described the truce as a “glimmer of hope” and called on all parties to comply fully with its terms to prevent further civilian suffering.

“The suffering of civilians in Gaza – especially women and children – has gone on for far too long,” he said, urging stakeholders to seize this opportunity to build peace. “Although Singapore is 8,000km away, our hearts are not distant.”

Ongoing Contributions and Capacity Building

Singapore’s latest donation adds to over $24 million in humanitarian aid delivered by the Republic and its citizens through ten previous tranches. Aid has been channelled via regional partners including Egypt, Jordan, the UAE, and Cyprus, as well as through air drops by the Singapore Armed Forces.

Beyond immediate relief, Dr Balakrishnan reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to long-term reconstruction and governance development under its Enhanced Technical Assistance Package (ETAP). The programme, valued at US$10 million, has trained more than 800 Palestinian officials in fields such as governance, economic management, and public health.

New Courses to Strengthen Palestinian Governance

Responding to the PA’s request, Singapore will introduce two new courses in 2026 focusing on digital economy and digital entrepreneurship. These initiatives will strengthen the PA’s administrative and economic capacity, equipping Palestinians for a more sustainable future.

They join two other upcoming initiatives:

• A Community Policing Course, in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
• A Young Leaders’ Programme for emerging Palestinian leaders

Together, these programmes aim to empower the next generation of Palestinian officials to lead effectively and foster peace through innovation and collaboration.

Reaffirming a Two-State Solution

Dr Balakrishnan reiterated Singapore’s steadfast support for a negotiated two-state solution consistent with UN Security Council resolutions. “This remains the only viable pathway to a comprehensive, just, and durable peace,” he said.

He added that Singapore, a friend to both sides, hopes to one day see Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security.

Hope Beyond Borders

WFP representative Jane Waite described Singapore’s donation as “a beacon of solidarity at a critical time.” Having recently visited Gaza, she said, “The needs are immense, but contributions like Singapore’s bring tangible hope to those who have lost almost everything.”

Singapore’s US$500,000 donation to the WFP is more than financial aid—it is a gesture of compassion, solidarity, and long-term partnership. As Gaza rebuilds amid fragile peace, Singapore’s continued investment in humanitarian relief and capacity building highlights how even a small nation can help shape a more peaceful and resilient future for the region.

Sources: Straits Times (2025) , Mothership (2025)

Keywords: Singapore Gaza Aid, World Food Programme, Humanitarian Assistance, Two-State Solution, Vivian Balakrishnan, Palestine Reconstruction