Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has spoken out condemning the attacks on Israel, a brave stand to take in light of geopolitical sensitivities (read: angry Muslim extremists in neighbouring countries). But this isn't the first time that Singapore has defended Israel, the country that helped build our armed forces into what it is today.
1986: President Chaim Herzog visits Singapore, everyone complains.
In April 1986, Singapore Foreign Minister S Dhanabalan visited Israel, which invited a return visit from Israeli President Chaim Herzog in November 1986. Every last Muslim neighbour Singapore had was unhappy. Malaysia was unhappy, recalling its High Commissioner and triggering calls to cut Singapore's water supply (again). Indonesia was unhappy, with student protests breaking out. Even Brunei was unhappy, summoning Singapore's High Commissioner for a earful at the Brunei foreign ministry.
2014: Gaza War, Hong Lim park protesters complain
In 2014, the Gaza War broke out, a 7-week conflict with over 2,000 casualties. On 26 July that year, an independent activist group called From Singapore to Palestine organised a rally at Hong Lim Park, attended by over 300 people. Many chanted "Free Palestine" and held signs such as Save Gaza.
2017: PM Benjamin Netanyahu visits Singapore, Osman Sulaiman complains
When Benjamin Netanyahu visited Singapore in 2017, SPP politician Osman Sulaiman wanted to protest at Hong Lim Park, but showed a devastating lack of foresight - he applied too late to receive a police permit. Demonstrating great adaptability, he decided to write a letter instead, and deliver it personally to Israel's embassy to let them know what he thought about Ben. The embassy rejected his letter, so he had to go home and do the most Singaporean of all things - write a Facebook post instead.
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