SINGAPORE, July 29, 2025 – Singapore has signalled that it is “prepared in principle” to recognise the State of Palestine, provided certain conditions are met, according to remarks delivered by Deputy Secretary (Asia‑Pacific) Kevin Cheok at a high‑level United Nations conference in New York. The announcement came during a three‑day gathering aimed at advancing a two‑state solution to the Israeli–Palestinian conflict , reported the Straits Times.
Cheok emphasised that recognition would hinge on the emergence of an effective Palestinian government that renounces terrorism and accepts Israel’s right to exist. Once a permanent ceasefire is achieved, Singapore is also considering deploying a medical team and contributing to Gaza’s reconstruction efforts .
Singapore is urging for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, urging Israel to ease humanitarian access, and calling on Hamas to release remaining hostages “immediately and unconditionally.” Cheok described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as “heartbreaking,” highlighting severe shortages of aid and medical care, as well as the dire consequences facing civilians trying to access food .
The UN session, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, aimed to foster renewed momentum for peace talks. Cheok affirmed Singapore’s position as a friend to both Israelis and Palestinians, and reaffirmed its longstanding support for furthering a negotiated two‑state settlement .
