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'Very disturbed’ by Israel’s disproportionate force against Palestinians: Faishal

Spectators gather to view the rubble of the al-Jalaa building following a cease-fire reached after an 11-day war between Gaza's Hamas rulers and Israel, in Gaza City, Friday, May 21, 2021. The building housed the Associated Press bureau in Gaza City for 15 years. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)
Spectators viewing the destroyed al-Jalaa building in Gaza City after a cease-fire reached between Gaza's Hamas rulers and Israel on 21 May 2021. (PHOTO: AP)

SINGAPORE — Israel has used “disproportionate force and violence” against the Palestinian people, Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State for Home Affairs, said on Monday (24 May).

In a post on his Facebook page, Prof Faishal said he noted that there had been attacks on Israelis with rockets sent into Israel, while Hamas had tried to provoke the Israelis.

He added, “But overall, I am very disturbed by Israel’s actions: the manner in which the arguments first started, and the way in which Israel has used disproportionate force against innocent people, including children. It’s unacceptable, and very tragic. And it has come during this holy period for Muslims.”

Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State for Home Affairs. (PHOTO: Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim/Facebook)
Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State for Home Affairs. (PHOTO: Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim/Facebook)

Both the Israelis and the ruling Hamas in Gaza had agreed to a ceasefire taking effect last Friday in the two-week conflict.

Welcoming the ceasefire, Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement last Friday, “We urge all sides to comply fully with the ceasefire so as to break the cycle of violence and avoid any further loss of civilian lives. We convey our deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones on both sides and wish a full recovery for those who have been injured.”

Prof Faishal noted that many Singaporeans have asked about how they can help in the "dire humanitarian situation” in Gaza.

Expressing his appreciation for Singaporeans’ sense of compassion, Prof Faishal strongly urge all Singaporeans to channel donations through the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation, which is working with United Nations Relief and Work Agency for Palestine, and the Singapore Red Cross. More than $1.8 million has been raised by them so far. according to Prof Faishal.

The MFA statement said the Singapore government will donate US$100,000 as seed money for the Singapore Red Cross to launch a public appeal for cash donations to provide immediate relief supplies.

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