Singapore will take action against its citizens who participate in overseas conflicts, Coordinating Minister for National Security K Shanmugam said Monday, emphasizing the importance of maintaining racial and religious harmony within the country.
Singaporeans Fighting in Foreign Conflicts Face Legal Consequences
Shanmugam, who also serves as Minister for Home Affairs, highlighted the need to prevent external tensions and conflicts from being imported into Singapore, which he described as “a small oasis of peace.” He noted the country extends humanitarian aid when appropriate but prohibits citizens from engaging in violence abroad.
“They are not allowed to go and fight overseas, in foreign causes, whether for countries or for organisations like ISIS, whether they fight in Ukraine or Russia or Gaza, for any side,” Shanmugam stated. “That will be contrary to our laws and action will be taken.”
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) previously addressed a foreign news report on Feb. 19 regarding two Singaporeans allegedly fighting with the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) during the conflict in Gaza. MHA stated it had no substantiated information confirming the report.
Shanmugam acknowledged occasional reports of Singaporeans involved in foreign conflicts, emphasizing that when such cases are verified, the Internal Security Department (ISD) will detain those involved, as has been done in the past. He also noted the challenges of verifying information amidst the spread of fake news.
Shanmugam underscored the critical role of religious and community leaders in fostering harmony within Singapore, attributing the nation’s peace to its focus on racial and religious cohesion. He spoke at a fast-breaking session co-organised by Khadijah Mosque and the Religious Rehabilitation Group.
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