In a recent turn of events, the Singapore police have initiated an investigation into activist Gilbert Goh. This investigation revolves around Goh’s act of holding up a sign outside the Speakers’ Corner at Hong Lim Park, where Lim protested against the conflict in the Middle East, according to Channel NewsAsia.
The Israel-Hamas conflict is a long-standing and complex geopolitical issue involving Israel and the Palestinian militant group, Hamas. It has been characterized by a history of hostilities, military operations, and territorial disputes.
Gilbert’s protest
The Singapore Police Force previously issued a statement saying that they would be rejecting applications to hold public assemblies about the Israel and Hamas conflict because of concerns of public safety and security.
Goh then posted a black and white photo on Instagram of himself holding a sign at the Speakers’ Corner that said “Peace not war. Israel stop the killing at Gaza! Hamas release all the hostages!”
Another similar photo of Goh at the Speaker’s Corner holding the sign, this time coloured, made its way onto social media and started circulating.
Police response
The Singapore police responded by stating that they were aware of a social media post featuring Goh holding the sign related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
An investigation into the matter was promptly initiated. The police also reiterated their stance on not permitting public assemblies related to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, citing public safety and security concerns.
Thousands of civilians dead
The Israel-Hamas conflict had reached a critical point in recent times. Palestinian militant group Hamas took more than 200 people hostage when it launched an incursion into Israel from the Gaza Strip earlier this month, as well as killing more than 1,400 people.
In response, Israel initiated a retaliatory campaign, including airstrikes, leading to the loss of over 4,000 Palestinian lives.