Global EconomyTransportationDefense

Vivian Balakrishnan on Why S'pore Doesn’t Negotiate with Iran for Safe Passage of Ships

The Straits Times
The Straits Times•Apr 7, 2026

Why It Matters

Singapore’s firm stance upholds UNCLOS, safeguarding free trade through one of the world’s busiest sea lanes and shaping geopolitical dynamics in the region.

Key Takeaways

  • •Singapore's straits are narrower than Hormuz, critical chokepoint
  • •Majority of global oil and container traffic passes through Malacca‑Singapore
  • •Singapore upholds UN Convention on Law of Sea for navigation
  • •Minister refuses negotiating safe passage with Iran to preserve legal principle
  • •Engagement with Iran remains diplomatic, not about tolls or side‑taking

Summary

Vivian Balakrishnan explained that Singapore’s strategic position at the narrowest point of the Straits of Singapore—under two nautical miles—makes it a vital maritime chokepoint, even more constrained than the Strait of Hormuz. He highlighted that a larger share of global oil, crude, refined products and container traffic traverses the Malacca‑Singapore corridor, underscoring its significance for international trade. The minister stressed that Singapore’s policy is anchored in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), treating freedom of navigation as an inherent right rather than a negotiable privilege. He argued that any bilateral deal with Iran on safe passage or toll rates would erode this legal principle, regardless of diplomatic engagement. Balakrishnan noted his prior talks with the Iranian foreign minister before the conflict and affirmed future diplomatic contact, but he drew a clear line at negotiating passage terms. He quoted, “Freedom of navigation is a right, not a privilege,” to illustrate Singapore’s unwavering stance. By refusing to bargain over safe‑passage, Singapore reinforces the rule‑based order governing world shipping lanes, deterring precedent‑setting concessions that could jeopardize the free flow of trade. The position signals to regional actors that strategic waterways will remain governed by international law, preserving stability for global supply chains.

Original Description

Singapore cannot engage in negotiations with Iran for passage through the Strait of Hormuz as a matter of principle, said Minister of Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan. He was responding to an earlier question from WP MP Fadli Fawzi who had asked if the Government is engaging the Iranian authorities to secure transit through the Strait of Hormuz for Singapore-flagged vessels, similar to what other countries like Malaysia have done, and if Singapore would be open to paying a toll to pass through the Strait.
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