Singapore considers recognizing Palestine and imposes sanctions on settler leaders

Singapore announced on Monday that it would impose targeted sanctions on the leaders of Israeli settler groups and is prepared to recognize Palestine as a state—provided that the necessary conditions are met.

Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan criticized Israeli politicians in parliament who talk about annexing parts of the West Bank or the Gaza Strip and called on Tel Aviv to stop expanding settlements.
He made particular reference to the E1 project, which he believes cuts through the West Bank and undermines the possibility of a two-state solution.

Balakrishnan added that the recognition of Palestine is a question of “when, not if,” but requires a functioning Palestinian government that recognizes Israel's existence and rejects terrorism.

According to the minister, the only path to a just and lasting peace is through a negotiated agreement that leads to two states living side by side in security and dignity.

(reuters, sab)