Rising Security Concerns: Anti-Singapore Threats Escalate Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict, Says Shanmugam

SINGAPORE — In the wake of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam noted a marked rise in anti-Singapore rhetoric on regional social media platforms, with posts emerging since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel and subsequent Israeli military response. Speaking at a National Day Awards ceremony for Home Team officers, Shanmugam explained that much of the commentary suggests Singapore is perceived as being pro-West or pro-Israel, fueling sentiments that have sparked calls for actions against Singapore, including threats involving “rockets” and “bombs.”

He added that extremist groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS are also using the conflict to encourage attacks, which underscores the need for vigilance. “An attack, like what happened in Israel, could happen anywhere, including here,” he stated. Shanmugam urged that while Singaporeans sympathize with innocent civilians affected by the conflict, they should also be cautious to prevent such divisions from impacting Singapore’s religious harmony.

Shanmugam further acknowledged the heightened security challenges facing Home Team officers, from dealing with scams and online threats to addressing misinformation and drug issues. In light of recent global tensions, officers are increasingly called to uphold Singapore’s unique multicultural peace, especially amid rising concerns of Islamophobia and anti-Semitism worldwide.