Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu yesterday expressed his appreciation for Singapore’s “swift and unequivocal condemnation” of a bus bomb blast that rocked Israel.

“We will spare no effort to bring those who committed this act to justice and those who supported them. I speak for all Israelis, and I’m sure for you as well, Prime Minister (Lee Hsien Loong), when I wish the wounded a speedy and full recovery,” he said during a welcome ceremony for Mr Lee, who is making his first official visit to Israel.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Lee noted that Singapore and Israel face many common security issues, including the threat of terrorism.

Referring to the bus bomb attack in Jerusalem on Monday, Mr Lee said “the more fundamental issue which threatens many societies (is) not with overturning civilisation, but with raking death and destruction and harm in a way which can do a lot of damage.”

Jerusalem was rocked on Monday by a bomb blast that ripped through a bus and resulted in a fire. At least 21 people were wounded, said the Israeli police.

It is not known yet who is responsible for the bombing.

“Singapore condemns the bus bombing in Jerusalem ... that has injured many innocent civilians,” said a Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman yesterday.

“We wish the injured a speedy recovery. We are confident that the authorities will bring those responsible for this act of terror to justice swiftly.” ALBERT WAI IN JERUSALEM