Singapore will not negotiate for safe passage through Strait of Hormuz: Vivian Balakrishnan
Vivian Balakrishnan said transit passage is a legal right, not a privilege, and Singapore is exploring a safe maritime corridor with regional partners.
- On Tuesday, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan told Parliament that Singapore will not negotiate with Iran or pay tolls for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that transit is a fundamental right under international law.
- Iran effectively closed the vital Strait of Hormuz on February 28 following regional conflict, prompting other nations to strike deals for safe passage. Reports indicate some vessels paid up to $2 million in fees to Tehran.
- The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea codifies transit as a right rather than a privilege. Balakrishnan argued that negotiating tolls would erode these critical legal principles enshrined in the treaty.
- Seeking multilateral solutions, the Maritime and Port Authority remains in contact with shipowners while exploring safe transit arrangements. Singapore is actively pursuing discussions with regional counterparts and international bodies to facilitate secure passage.
- Balakrishnan emphasized that his stance is driven by principle rather than geopolitics. He expects to engage Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in the near future to address maritime safety concerns.
15 Articles
15 Articles
Singapore's refusal to negotiate with Iran regrettable, says Nurul Izzah
PETALING JAYA: Remarks by Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan on the republic's refusal to engage in negotiations with Iran concerning safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz are both revealing and regrettable, says Nurul Izzah Anwar.
Singapore foreign minister: There will be no negotiations with Iran over Hormuz passage
SINGAPORE, April 8 — Singapore will not engage in negotiations with Iran for safe passage of ships or toll rate on the Straits of Hormuz, in line with its principle of not taking...
Singapore will not negotiate Hormuz passage rights, says foreign minister
SINGAPORE: Singapore will not engage in negotiations with Iran for safe passage of ships or toll rate on the Straits of Hormuz, in line with its principle of not taking sides, said Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 45% of the sources are Center, 44% of the sources lean Right
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium













