Debated in Parliament on 5 Feb 2024.
Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Defence (a) what is the risk of conflict escalation from the recent US strikes on Houthi sites in Yemen; (b) how will this impact Singapore's further participation in the defensive coalition under Operation Prosperity Guardian in the Red Sea; and (c) whether Singapore's role will be limited to contributing personnel to protect shipping vessels through maritime patrols and information sharing.
The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) participates in multinational operations, which are consistent with international law and when aligned with our national interests.
The United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2722 – that was adopted on 10 January 2024 – demanded that the Houthis in Yemen immediately cease all attacks on merchant and commercial vessels, which impede global commerce, undermine navigational rights and freedoms as well as threaten regional peace and security.
Operation Prosperity Guardian (OPG) is a multinational coalition to protect shipping vessels in the Red Sea against security threats. It is in Singapore's interest to be part of such international efforts to ensure that key Sea Lines of Communication, like the Red Sea, remain open and safe for the free flow of trade.
Recently, the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) have launched several strikes on Houthi sites in Yemen – under a separate operation the US Central Command has called Operation Poseidon Archer. The Combined Task Force 153 and OPG are not linked to the US and UK strikes. Similarly, the SAF was not involved in the US and UK strikes.
We urge the Houthis to stop their unlawful attacks in the Red Sea as demanded in UNSCR 2722 to avoid an escalation of the conflict.
PAPERCUTS