Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan has acknowledged that former U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion that the disruption of energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz primarily concerns Asia holds some truth. The narrow waterway, a critical artery linking the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea, is heavily relied upon by Asian economies such as Korea, Japan, and China for energy imports. Given this dependency, any extended interruptions in navigation through Hormuz could have substantial economic ramifications for the region.

Balakrishnan emphasized that the issue extends beyond simply who consumes the oil transported through the strait. He underscored the paramount importance of preserving freedom of navigation in global waterways, describing it as “non-negotiable” and essential to Singapore’s national interests. This stance rests on the framework of international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which safeguards rights to unimpeded passage and international maritime transit.

The foreign minister also raised concerns about Iran’s ambitions to assert stricter control over the Strait of Hormuz by potentially charging tolls on vessels passing through. Such a move would not only generate revenue for Tehran but could effectively grant it veto power over passage in the area. Balakrishnan suggested this potential leverage might be more consequential for Iran than even its pursuit of nuclear weapons, fundamentally altering the geopolitical dynamics surrounding the strait.

Although energy shipments currently continue to flow, Balakrishnan warned of ongoing tensions and “pushing and shoving” between involved parties. He did not anticipate a quick diplomatic solution, highlighting the persistent risk to secure navigation. Singapore remains determined not to pick sides between Washington and Beijing, focusing instead on protecting freedom of navigation through strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Malacca, reinforcing its commitment to uphold established international maritime laws.