Singapore's Stance on Maritime Jurisdiction in Light of Interception of Global Sumud Flotilla

Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs in light of the recent interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla in alleged international waters (a) what is Singapore's position under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) on the limits of a State's sovereignty and enforcement rights beyond its territorial waters; and (b) how may such actions affect coastal states, like Singapore, in upholding the principles of freedom of navigation and the safe passage of civilian or humanitarian vessels.

The political intention of the Global Sumud Flotilla was clear and widely publicised. It has sought to argue that Israel's interception constitutes violations of international law including customary norms as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The Israeli government has said that its interception was because it would not allow the flotilla to enter an active combat zone, that is, the Gaza Strip, or breach a lawful naval blockade. This is a matter that would have to be settled at an appropriate forum.

Singapore has consistently called on all parties in the Gaza conflict to comply with relevant rules of international law, including international humanitarian law. This would also include compliance with the law of the sea. These rules apply equally in respect of maritime areas affected by the conflict as well as within the Gaza Strip. Respect for international law is of critical importance to small island states, like Singapore.