Singapore Warns Hormuz Crisis Could Foreshadow China–U.S. Conflict Risks in Pacific

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan warned that tensions in the Strait of Hormuz may be a “dry run” for a potential future conflict between the United States and China in the Pacific. Speaking at CNBC’s CONVERGE LIVE event, he said current disruptions in the Middle East highlight how quickly global trade routes can be threatened during geopolitical conflict, particularly through strategic chokepoints critical to energy and shipping flows. Balakrishnan emphasized that Singapore will not be forced to choose between the U.S. and China, stating the country will “refuse to choose” and act only in its own national interest. He stressed the importance of maintaining open sea lanes under international law, including the Strait of Malacca, and warned against any attempts to impose tolls or block transit routes. He also highlighted that trust, predictability, and stability are essential for reducing global economic risk in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical environment.