The terrorism threat in Singapore has increased since the Israel-Hamas war, with the conflict sparking more acts of violence worldwide, which has affected the Republic.
In its annual report on terrorism released on July 25, Singapore’s Internal Security Department (ISD) said terrorist elements have used the conflict to further their agenda.
It said there has been more anti-Singapore rhetoric on social media from regional extremist elements, with some regional netizens perceiving Singapore to be pro-Israel.
The agency added that while there is no indication of an imminent threat to Singapore, vigilance is required, given that militants linked to transnational terrorist groups had previously planned and conducted terrorist attacks here.
An example of this took place in 1985, when a Palestinian terrorist planted a bomb at Faber House, targeting the Israeli Embassy then located there.
ISD said some regional extremist elements took issue with Singapore’s contribution to Operation Prosperity Guardian.
The operation is an international maritime security force formed to respond to attacks by Yemeni Houthi rebels against shipping in the Red Sea.
From January to June in 2024, the Singapore Armed Forces sent 12 personnel to help with information sharing and operations planning under this operation.
Following this, ISD said there were social media posts urging attacks against Singapore using bombs and rockets, and calling for the Republic to be destroyed and wiped out.
The Israel-Hamas war started after Hamas attacked Israel on Oct 7, 2023. Israel responded with air strikes and an invasion of Gaza.
So far, more than 40,000 people have died amid the conflict.
In March, US intelligence assessed the war would likely have a generational impact on terrorism.
ISD said the conflict has sparked hate crimes and religiously motivated attacks globally.
This story is from the July 26, 2024 edition of The Straits Times.
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This story is from the July 26, 2024 edition of The Straits Times.
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