Three activists are under police investigation over protest against arms trade with Israel at Gardens by the Bay

SINGAPORE: Three activists are under police investigation after staging a protest at the OCBC Skyway in Gardens by the Bay, displaying a banner that called for the cessation of Singapore’s arms trade with Israel.

The public protest occurred on Monday evening, drawing attention amidst claims of severe human rights violations in Gaza.

The banner, reading “End SG – Israel arms trade,” was said to be part of a global initiative known as A15, which advocates for an economic blockade in 50 cities worldwide to highlight the global economy’s indifference to ongoing atrocities.

The Singapore police confirmed with local media that reports had been lodged and are currently investigating the incident. A spokesperson for Gardens by the Bay also acknowledged awareness of the protest and mentioned that a police report has been filed, though further comment was withheld due to ongoing investigations.

This demonstration aligns with severe international criticism against Israel, highlighted by allegations from the South African Government at the International Court of Justice regarding acts of genocide by Israeli forces in Gaza, and the ongoing violence in the West Bank.

Over the last six months, the conflict, which was initiated by the Palestine military group Hamas’ 7 October offensive, has resulted in over 33,000 Palestinian deaths and more than 75,000 injuries, with widespread destruction across Gaza’s infrastructure, including hospitals and schools.

Reports from organizations like Doctors Without Borders indicate severe restrictions on medical supplies and attacks on aid workers, exacerbating the crisis.

The activists, who convened at 7:15 pm, expressed their dissent against Singapore’s involvement in arms trade with Israel, citing data showing Singapore as the tenth largest importer of Israeli military equipment, with transactions totaling approximately US$73 million from 2018 to 2022.

They argue that these dealings contradict the humanitarian support Singapore has extended to Palestine and only serve to perpetuate the conflict. Reports from organizations such as Doctors Without Borders have painted a grim picture of the crisis, with significant restrictions on medical supplies and attacks on aid workers.

The group’s statement criticized the current governmental stance as insufficient, despite Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s previous expressions of concern and support for U.N. resolutions aiming for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid in the region.

They urged the incoming Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong, to use his forthcoming leadership role to reevaluate and potentially end these controversial arms dealings.

The activists also highlighted the restrictive nature of the Public Order Act in Singapore, under which their peaceful protest could be deemed illegal without a police permit, potentially resulting in fines.

They lamented the challenges in exercising their rights to freedom of speech and assembly, particularly when attempts to organize lawful demonstrations at designated areas like Hong Lim Park have been thwarted.

Singapore authorities, including the National Parks Board, had earlier declared that events and public assemblies related to the volatile Israel-Hamas conflict, are prohibited, citing substantial public safety and security concerns amidst escalating international tension.

In a defiant tone, the demonstrators declared, “We have no choice but to escalate our efforts to draw attention to our urgent demands. You cannot ignore us now,” emphasizing their commitment to raising awareness and seeking change.

The full statement of the activists can be seen on the petition put up on Change.org.