Singapore Pledges Over S$2.6 Million in New Humanitarian Aid for Gaza
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Singapore Increases Support for Gaza Relief Efforts
Singapore has announced a new tranche of humanitarian assistance totaling S$1.2 million for civilians affected by the ongoing conflict in Gaza, bringing the total aid contributed by Singapore and Singaporeans to over S$23 million. The proclamation was made on Sunday, September 21, 2024, by the Ministry of Foreign affairs (MFA).
This latest contribution comprises S$440,000 previously allocated for tents, supplemented by a new commitment of S$758,000 dedicated to essential medical and educational services for evacuees. These funds will provide medical consumables, equipment, and a mobile education unit, according to the singapore Red Cross (SRC).
President Tharman Witnesses Donation Handover
The symbolic handover of the donations took place in Egypt and was witnessed by Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who is currently on a state visit from September 19 to September 22, 2024.
Singapore Red cross Leads Relief Efforts
To date, the SRC has contributed S$1.9 million in aid to the people of Gaza, channeled through the Egyptian Red Crescent. this aid includes vital supplies such as medical provisions, hygiene kits, food, water filtration systems, and food parcels. Additionally, the SRC has provided a further S$500,000 for relief operations through other partners within the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement, including the International Committee of the Red Cross.
The SRC has also deployed an operations coordinator and an eight-person team to assist the Egyptian Red Crescent with relief operations, beginning in 2024.
Commitment to Education and Healthcare
Benjamin William, Secretary-general and CEO of the SRC, emphasized the organization’s dedication to supporting displaced children’s education and providing families with necessary medical care. He stated that access to education and healthcare is “not only a essential need but also a lifeline of dignity and hope for those rebuilding their lives.”
The SRC will continue to support displaced communities within Gaza.
Context: The Gaza Conflict
The conflict in gaza, which began following Hamas-led attacks in Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 65,000 Palestinian deaths, according to health authorities in gaza.Reuters provides ongoing coverage of the conflict and its impact.
