How Singaporeans participating in foreign armed conflicts will be dealt with

Questions:

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong: To ask the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) whether the Ministry has any substantiated information that Singaporeans have served in the Israeli Defence Forces in 2025; (b) if yes, whether such service is in breach of our laws and whether any action will be taken; and (c) how does the Government monitor and advise citizens against being involved in foreign military conflicts.

Mr Fadli Fawzi: To ask the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) whether the claims that two Singaporeans served in the Israel Defence Force will be investigated; (b) if identified, whether these individuals will be prosecuted under section 125 of the Penal Code 1871 or any other relevant legislation; and (c) whether their citizenship will be deprived should they hold dual citizenship.

Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim: To ask the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs in light of reports that two Singaporeans with multiple or dual nationalities served in the Israel Defence Forces (a) how is the Ministry verifying whether any Singaporeans have served or are serving in any foreign military without authorisation; (b) if verified, what action will be taken; and (c) how will policies be reviewed to mitigate risks of unauthorised foreign military involvement by Singaporeans.

Answer:

Mr K Shanmugam, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs:

1. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is aware of a foreign news report stating that two Singaporeans were among those who fought for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) during the conflict in Gaza. The Ministry has no substantiated information confirming that any Singaporean has served, or is serving, in the IDF.

2. Our position has always been quite clear and publicly stated. Singaporeans should not participate in any foreign armed conflict not involving Singapore. Our loyalties as Singaporeans should only be to Singapore, and we should only ever engage in military action in defence of Singapore.

3. If Singaporeans are found to be fighting or even planning to fight in foreign armed conflicts, these persons will be dealt with in accordance with our laws. We have stated that, and have detained people in the past for that reason. They can be dealt with under the Internal Security Act if they are found to be a threat to our national security. Those who are found to be holding multiple citizenships may also be deprived of their Singapore citizenship.