Singapore imposes sanctions on Israeli settlers over West Bank violence

Friday 21 November 2025 - 07:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Singapore imposes sanctions on Israeli settlers over West Bank violence

Singapore has announced financial sanctions and entry bans against four Israeli settlers accused of committing severe acts of violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. The city-state's Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that these actions violated international law and undermined the prospects for a two-state solution.

The individuals targeted by the sanctions include Meir Mordechai Ettinger, Elisha Yered, Ben-Zion Gopstein, and Baruch Marzel. Singapore's foreign ministry stated that their actions were “egregious” and condemned any attempts to unilaterally alter facts on the ground.

“As a firm supporter of international law and the two-state solution, Singapore opposes illegal acts that destabilize the region,” the ministry emphasized. All four settlers had previously been sanctioned by the European Union.

Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, addressing parliament in September, had announced Singapore’s intent to impose measures against leaders of settler groups. He criticized Israeli politicians advocating annexation in the West Bank and warned that projects like the E1 settlement plan would fragment Palestinian territories, further complicating peace efforts.

In addition to sanctions, Balakrishnan reiterated Singapore’s conditional support for recognizing a Palestinian state under appropriate circumstances.

Most of the global community views Israeli settlements in the West Bank as illegal under international law, a stance Israel disputes by referencing historical and biblical claims to the area. Israel also argues that these settlements are key to its security.

While Singapore and Israel have maintained strong diplomatic and military ties since 1965, the city-state has increasingly voiced support for Palestinian statehood, voting in favor of related UN resolutions in 2024.