Singapore Strengthens Defense Partnership with Jordan After Gaza Aid Airdrop Operations

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August 18, 2025

Singapore Strengthens Ties with Jordan Amid Gaza Aid Efforts

Amman, Jordan – Senior Minister of State for Defence Zaqy Mohamad has underscored Singapore’s strong relationship with Jordan following collaborative airdrop missions to deliver critical aid to Gaza. The operations, initiated on August 15th, represent a unified effort to alleviate the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region.

Joint Operations and Collaboration

Mr. Zaqy Mohamad met with Major-General Yousef Huneiti, chairman of the Jordan Armed Forces’ Joint Chiefs of Staff, on August 17th. During the meeting, he expressed Singapore’s gratitude for Jordan’s invitation to the Republic of Singapore Air force (RSAF) to participate in the crucial airdrop operations. A total of 58 Singaporean defence and military personnel were deployed to support this endeavor.

Discussions extended to potential avenues for increased collaboration between the two armed forces. Both sides explored ways to further address the urgent humanitarian needs of the population in Gaza, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Defence.

Visiting Personnel and Continued Support

On August 18th, Mr. Mohamad visited the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) personnel stationed at king Abdullah II Air Base, as well as representatives from Humanity Matters, a non-governmental organization actively involved in the relief efforts. He extended his thankfulness to the NGO for supplementing the aid supplies, which will be delivered via further airdrops by the SAF in the coming days.

This mission marks mr. Mohamad’s third humanitarian undertaking in the Middle East alongside the SAF, solidifying Singapore’s commitment to providing assistance in conflict zones. He emphasized the dedication of the deployed personnel, stating their resolve to ensure safe and effective delivery of aid despite the inherent risks. “For me, this is more then a military mission,” Mr. Mohamad stated, “This is Singapore’s collective effort, representing our people’s compassion and push for humanity.”

Airdrop Details and Aid Composition

An RSAF C-130 transport aircraft initially deployed medical and food supplies to Gaza on August 15th,joining other international air forces in a coordinated effort at the invitation of the Jordanian government. Singapore previously conducted its first airdrop to Gaza on March 20, 2024. The current aid package includes medical provisions sourced from the Ministry of Health, along with food items provided by NGOs including Humanity Matters, Caritas Humanitarian Aid and Relief Initiatives Singapore, Mercy Relief, and the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation.

The entire operation is centrally coordinated through the Changi Regional Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Coordination Center.

Singapore’s Cumulative Aid to Gaza

Timeframe	Total Aid Contributed
Since October 2023	Over $22 Million
August 15th Airdrop	Part of $22 Million Total

Did You No? Singapore has a long-standing tradition of providing humanitarian assistance internationally,reflecting its commitment to global cooperation and social responsibility.

The Role of Airdrops in Humanitarian Relief

Airdrops, while challenging, are frequently enough the moast viable means of delivering aid to populations in active conflict zones or areas with limited access. This method bypasses ground routes that may be insecure or blocked, enabling the swift provision of essential supplies.however, airdrops require precise coordination, skilled personnel, and careful consideration of safety protocols to ensure aid reaches its intended recipients effectively. The success of operations like these underscores the importance of international collaboration and logistical expertise in responding to complex humanitarian crises.

Pro Tip: To stay informed about ongoing humanitarian efforts and how you can contribute, regularly consult resources from organizations like the United Nations Office for the Coordination of humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and reputable NGOs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Singapore’s Gaza Aid

What are your thoughts on international cooperation in humanitarian crises? Share your perspective in the comments below.

How did the gaza airdrop operation specifically demonstrate the interoperability of Singaporean and Jordanian armed forces?

Joint Humanitarian Efforts Fuel Closer Military Ties

Recent collaborative humanitarian aid operations to Gaza have significantly bolstered the defense partnership between Singapore and Jordan. Following a series of successful airdrops delivering critical supplies to the region,both nations are signaling a commitment to deepened military cooperation,focusing on areas like counter-terrorism,regional security,and joint training exercises. This strengthening of ties comes amidst ongoing instability in the Middle East and highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing complex humanitarian crises.

The Gaza Airdrop: A Catalyst for Collaboration

In August 2025,Singapore,in partnership with Jordan,participated in a multinational effort to deliver essential aid – including medical supplies,food,and water – via airdrop to Gaza. The Jordanian Armed Forces played a pivotal role, providing logistical support, airspace access, and coordinating the operation from their Muzaffar Air Base.

Singapore’s contribution included logistical planning and personnel embedded within the Jordanian operation.

The airdrop showcased the interoperability of both nations’ armed forces, despite differing operational doctrines.

This mission underscored the shared commitment to humanitarian principles and regional stability.

The success of the airdrop served as a practical demonstration of the existing strong relationship and identified areas for future enhancement. Discussions immediately following the operation centered on formalizing increased collaboration.

Expanding Areas of Defense Cooperation

The enhanced partnership isn’t limited to humanitarian aid. Several key areas are expected to see increased activity:

Joint military Exercises: Plans are underway for expanded joint military exercises, focusing on urban warfare scenarios, counter-terrorism tactics, and maritime security. These exercises will improve interoperability and allow for the exchange of best practices.

Technology Transfer: Singapore, a leader in defense technology, is exploring opportunities for responsible technology transfer to Jordan, focusing on areas like surveillance systems and cybersecurity.

Personnel Training: Increased exchange programs for military personnel are planned, allowing officers and specialists from both countries to receive training in each other’s facilities. This includes specialized training in areas like disaster relief and medical support.

Intelligence Sharing: Enhanced intelligence sharing mechanisms are being developed to address common security threats, including terrorism and transnational crime. This will involve secure communication channels and regular data exchange.

Defense Industry collaboration: Both nations are looking at potential collaborations within the defense industry,including joint research and growth projects.

Jordan’s Strategic Importance to Singapore

Jordan holds significant strategic importance for Singapore due to its:

Regional Stability: Jordan is considered a key pillar of stability in the volatile Middle East region.

Counter-Terrorism Efforts: Jordan is a strong partner in the global fight against terrorism, actively participating in international counter-terrorism initiatives.

Geopolitical Location: Jordan’s location provides access to key regional markets and strategic waterways.

Strong Military Capabilities: The Jordanian Armed Forces are well-equipped and highly trained, making them a valuable partner for Singapore.

Benefits of the Strengthened Partnership

The deepened defense partnership offers several benefits for both Singapore and Jordan:

Enhanced Security: Increased cooperation strengthens both nations’ ability to address security threats and protect their interests.

Improved Interoperability: Joint training and exercises enhance the interoperability of their armed forces, allowing for more effective collaboration in future operations.

Economic Opportunities: Collaboration in the defense industry can create economic opportunities for both countries.

Regional Influence: A stronger partnership enhances both nations’ influence in the region and allows them to play a more active role in promoting peace and stability.

Humanitarian Capacity: Joint humanitarian efforts demonstrate a shared commitment to alleviating suffering and providing assistance to those in need.

Singapore’s Broader Regional security strategy

This strengthened partnership with Jordan aligns with Singapore’s broader regional security strategy, which emphasizes:

Multilateralism: Singapore actively participates in regional security forums and initiatives, such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus).

Defense Diplomacy: Singapore utilizes defense diplomacy to build relationships with key partners and promote regional stability.

Capability Development: Singapore invests heavily in developing a modern and capable armed forces.

International Law: Singapore is a strong advocate for upholding international law and the rules-based international order.

Real-World Example: Past Joint Exercises

Prior to the Gaza aid operation, Singapore and Jordan conducted a joint counter-terrorism exercise, “Falcon Eye,” in 2023. This exercise involved simulated hostage rescue scenarios and focused on improving coordination and communication between special forces units from both countries.The lessons learned from “Falcon Eye” were directly applicable to the logistical planning and coordination required for the Gaza airdrop. (https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/singapore/) – Referencing Singapore Factbook for general context.*