Singapore does not own the world’s conflicts. We did not start these battles, and we cannot shape their outcomes in any meaningful way.
What Singapore does is manage our response in a way that protects our sovereignty and secures our future.
Neutrality is not indifference—it is about survival.
Our geography, size, and economic structure place us in a unique position that demands a foreign policy rooted not in emotional impulse, but in clear-eyed pragmatism.
Being pragmatic does not mean we lack principles. In fact, we strongly uphold international law, the rules-based global order, and respect for sovereignty.
When we speak up on global issues, we do so not to posture or to show off moral superiority. It’s to protect the principles that, in turn, protect us.
Unlike bigger powers, we don’t have the space to indulge in virtue signalling.
Our words and actions matter because we use them carefully and consistently.
Every diplomatic move must be calculated, deliberate, and aligned with the larger goal of keeping Singapore safe, relevant, and prosperous.
This doesn’t mean we are cold or uncaring about global suffering. It means recognising that our influence is limited, and that the responsibilities of our government lie first and foremost with Singaporeans.
We contribute where we can—through humanitarian aid, capacity-building, and diplomacy—but never at the expense of national interest.
Some asked why Singapore hasn’t taken a stronger stance on the Israel-Palestine issue—why we haven’t severed ties with Israel or rushed to recognise Palestine.
As former diplomat Bilahari Kausikan said, cutting ties with Israel would make zero difference.
Cutting ties or taking sides through symbolic gestures may satisfy short-term emotions but will not contribute meaningfully in any way to long-term peace.
It just makes us less able to influence or mediate, and less relevant on the world stage.
Foreign policy cannot be shaped based on public pressure, sentiment, or what’s trending online.
Singapore’s approach makes sense. We maintain diplomatic relations with both Israel and the Palestinian Authority and engage both because we believe in dialogue, not division.
The Singapore Government has always made clear our position: we support the right of all peoples to live in peace and dignity—the Palestinians’ right to self-determination, and Israel’s right to security.
Finally, to paraphrase Mr Bilahari, “feeling good” is not the same as “doing good.”
