K Shanmugam on safeguarding social cohesion amid Israel-Hamas conflict

Between Oct 7 last year and Mar 31 this year, Police received 43 reports regarding alleged offensive remarks or actions targeted at members of the Jewish or Muslim communities in Singapore. Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam, who gave this update in reply to an MP’s question in Parliament on Wednesday (May 8), said the Government will intervene against acts which can affect Singapore’s social harmony. Mr Shanmugam noted that most Singaporeans understand the importance of safeguarding the country’s social cohesion and the value of mutual respect and tolerance, even where views on the Israel-Hamas conflict differ. People in Singapore have been relatively measured and rational in the way they have approached the issues, he added. Turning to the social media post by the Israeli embassy, Mr Shanmugam said foreign embassies and diplomatic staff in Singapore enjoy diplomatic immunity under the law unless they waive it. The Ministry of Home Affairs immediately shared its concerns with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs when the post was put up. The post was then taken down. Mr Shanmugam told the House that the Israeli ambassador had asked to see him and they met last week. He said the ambassador apologised for the post, saying it was wrong and was not authorised by him. He also told Mr Shanmugam that the officer responsible for the post will be sent back. Mr Shanmugam said he told the ambassador that posts like what the embassy put up have the potential to create tension between the Jewish and Muslim communities. Mr Shanmugam added that Police received a report on the post. In consultation with the Attorney-General's Chambers, they assessed that no further action was to be taken.