Overview
- Speaking at ISEAS‑Yusof Ishak Institute’s Regional Outlook Forum on Jan 8, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong said Singapore is gravely concerned and called the U.S. action a clear contravention of international law.
- Singapore’s Foreign Ministry reaffirmed on Jan 4 that the Republic opposes foreign military intervention and is committed to UN Charter principles safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- Lee warned that even if the raid was a short‑term military success, its long‑term impact on the international system poses risks for small countries.
- He said the United States has grown more willing to act unilaterally when it deems its interests at stake, citing recent actions in the Middle East, Nigeria and Venezuela.
- As safeguards, Lee highlighted Singapore’s roughly 3% of GDP defense spending and its emphasis on diversified ties and consistent, principle‑based positions at the United Nations.