Shangri-La Dialogue: can Asia do ‘less Shangri-La, more ships, more subs’?

At the recent Shangri-La Dialogue, discussions centered on defense spending and regional commitment to peace. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged allies to increase their defense contributions, proposing a 3.5% of GDP target. Analysts noted that most ASEAN countries, with the exception of Singapore, would find this spending level difficult to commit to. Hegseth warned that allies unwilling to increase their defense efforts would experience a "clear shift" in U.S. engagement. The dialogue highlighted a divergence in defense capabilities and willingness to contribute to collective security among Asian nations.

President Donald Trump has reportedly toughened the terms of a proposed agreement aimed at ending the nearly three-month war with Iran. US officials indicate that Iran may take several days to respond to these revised terms, which were sent back for consideration. While the exact nature of the changes is unclear, reports suggest Trump wants to reinforce key points, potentially including Iran's nuclear material and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The US is willing to wait for Iran's response, with hopes for a decision within the week. The war began after the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28.

At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, American allies emphasized the importance of global unity in addressing escalating, transnational threats. Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated that division weakens deterrence, while unity strengthens it, warning that gaps among allies would be exploited by adversaries. This call for cooperation comes amidst U.S. criticism of allies, including NATO, for insufficient defense spending. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles and Netherlands Defense Minister Dilan Yesilgöz-Zegerius echoed the sentiment that regional tensions have global implications and require collective responses to maintain stability and a rules-based international order.

On day 92 of the Iran conflict, prospects for a US-Iran agreement remain uncertain as President Trump prepares to make a "final determination" on a deal. Iranian officials maintain that negotiations are ongoing but no final agreement has been reached, emphasizing that Tehran will judge any potential easing of restrictions by actions, not words, and will not act unless Washington does first. Meanwhile, fighting continues in the region, with Israeli forces reportedly advancing beyond Lebanon's Litani River. US Central Command stated its forces are vigilant across the region, and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged allies to increase defense spending while reiterating the US commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. The US Department of Defense also described military-to-military talks between Israeli and Lebanese delegations in Washington as "productive."

During a cabinet meeting, President Trump threatened to "blow up" Oman, a US ally, if it did not "behave" regarding the Strait of Hormuz. This statement followed reports of discussions between Iran and Oman about jointly charging tolls for ships passing through the waterway. Trump asserted the strait would remain open to everyone and that Oman would comply. The article also reports on ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire, US strikes on Iranian targets, and retaliatory attacks. In Iran, internet restrictions were partially lifted, revealing public anger over rising food prices. The conflict has displaced over a million people in Lebanon, with thousands killed on both sides. Separately, the UN warned of a record hot year by 2030 due to intensifying climate change.

The U.S. military disabled the Gambia-flagged bulk carrier Lian Star in the Gulf of Oman for attempting to breach an American blockade of Iranian ports. A U.S. official stated the ship ignored warnings before being disabled by U.S. aircraft. This marks the sixth vessel stopped by the U.S. since implementing the blockade on April 17 in response to Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz. A fragile ceasefire has been in place since April 7, and the world awaits a decision on extending it while new talks on Iran's nuclear program are considered. The blockade aims to limit Iran's shipments and weaken its economy, impacting global trade.

Despite US bombings of Iranian targets, Iran remains engaged in peace talks mediated by Pakistan and Qatar. Iran's foreign ministry condemned the attacks, which targeted missile launchers and mine-laying efforts in the Strait of Hormuz, as a violation of the ceasefire but announced no specific reprisals. The US action killed four Iranian soldiers. Negotiations are focused on unlocking over $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets and securing sanctions relief for Iran's oil exports. A separate agreement aims to lift the blockade of Iranian oil ports and restore commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Hardliners in both countries are pressuring negotiators, but Iran's chief negotiator is reportedly focused on the frozen assets as the last major dispute.

US President Donald Trump announced that a peace deal with Iran, aimed at ending months of war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, is largely negotiated. The proposed memorandum of understanding involves multiple regional countries and would formally end the US-Israel war on Iran. While Trump expressed optimism, Iranian officials confirmed ongoing negotiations but highlighted significant disagreements, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's nuclear program, and regional conflicts. Iran's priority is ending the war and halting US attacks. The draft agreement reportedly includes Iran's commitment to not pursue nuclear weapons and potentially surrendering enriched uranium, with details to be negotiated later.

US media reports suggest a potential deal with Iran could be finalized on Monday, involving a 60-day ceasefire extension and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This agreement, however, is not a final settlement and defers complex issues like sanctions relief and Iran's nuclear ambitions to later negotiations. Communication difficulties with Iran's supreme leader, reportedly injured in an earlier strike, have slowed talks. The reported deal has divided Republicans, with some criticizing it as too lenient. President Trump, however, stated he would not listen to critics and would make a "good and proper" deal, reiterating that Iran cannot develop nuclear weapons. The conflict began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran, leading to retaliatory attacks and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which sent oil prices soaring.

At an Asian security summit in Singapore, US Defense Secretary Hegseth reassured allies that the US remains committed to the region, emphasizing a "strong, quiet and clear" approach backed by hard power. He stated the US is not "turning back" on its Asian partners but expects them to increase their defense spending, suggesting a target of 3.5% of GDP. Hegseth downplayed concerns about the US's ability to fulfill arms deals, asserting a strong munitions stockpile and production capacity, despite a recent suspension of a package to Taiwan. He argued for increased combat power over "empty globalist rhetoric," calling for more ships and submarines rather than additional conferences. This comes as Vietnam's President called for more dialogue to resolve regional tensions.

At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth outlined America's geopolitical goals, focusing on China's military buildup and its implications for regional stability. Hegseth expressed alarm over China's growing military presence and urged US allies to increase their defense spending to counter this power. Regarding Taiwan, he stated there was "no change in our status," but acknowledged that President Trump would make the final decision on a potential $14 billion arms sale. Hegseth also emphasized the need for allies to contribute more to defense, stating, "The era of the United States subsidizing the defense of wealthy nations is over." He also addressed Iran, warning of renewed US attacks if a satisfactory deal to end the ongoing war is not reached.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is delivering a keynote speech at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, a forum for discussing regional security challenges. His address is anticipated to signal US policy direction in the Indo-Pacific following President Trump's recent summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Hegseth is expected to cover US commitments in the Asia-Pacific, including issues related to the South China Sea and Taiwan, as well as AI rivalry and the US conflict with Iran. The event, attended by defense ministers, military chiefs, and diplomats from various nations, is the 23rd edition and will provide insights into American alliances and regional security. Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun is notably absent for the second consecutive year.

Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, arrived in Tehran on Friday, May 23, 2026, as mediation efforts for a US-Iran peace deal intensified. While Pakistan is reportedly playing a growing role, Iran's Foreign Ministry stated that significant differences remain in the mediated talks with Washington, indicating major obstacles to an agreement. Iran also asserted control over the Strait of Hormuz, calling transit fees a "security service" and rejecting US threats of escalation. An Iranian official emphasized that a halt to the war on all fronts is essential for any future negotiations, and a positive diplomatic atmosphere alone is insufficient for a deal. Separately, outrage is growing over alleged sexual assaults against Gaza aid flotilla activists seized by Israeli forces.

Senior US and Iranian officials indicated on Saturday that they may be nearing a breakthrough in negotiations for a draft deal to end a war in the Middle East. Iran stated that differences persist between the parties and that its nuclear program dispute will not be included in the initial discussions. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism, coinciding with the departure of Pakistan's army chief from Tehran after two days of talks with senior Iranian leaders. Rubio suggested that an announcement of progress could be made soon, potentially within days.

President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that a peace deal with Iran has been "largely negotiated," potentially ending a war initiated by the US and Israel in February. The agreement, described as a Memorandum of Understanding, is subject to finalization and will include the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. This development follows calls Trump made with Pakistani mediators, Gulf allies, and Israel. A Pakistani source indicated that Iran and Pakistan had submitted a revised proposal to the US aimed at ending the war and reopening the strait. Regional officials suggest the potential deal involves a formal declaration of war's end, negotiations on Iran's nuclear program, and the lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports. Trump indicated that final aspects and details are still being discussed and will be announced shortly.

Pakistani mediators are working to broker a permanent ceasefire between the US and Iran, though significant disagreements persist. Key sticking points include future control of the Strait of Hormuz and a US demand for Iran to export its highly enriched uranium stockpile. Iran prioritizes ending hostilities and lifting sanctions, proposing its own authority to manage the Strait of Hormuz, a plan opposed by five Gulf states. Meanwhile, Israel and Iran fear surprise attacks, and the US president maintains military action remains an option. Iran denies media speculation about nuclear issues, stating negotiations focus on ending the war and lifting sanctions.

Iran is reviewing the latest US responses to its proposal aimed at ending the nearly three-month war, with Pakistan intensifying mediation efforts. Pakistan's military chief, Asim Munir, is scheduled to visit Tehran for talks, following a visit by Pakistan's Interior Minister. US President Donald Trump has warned that negotiations are on the verge of either a deal or renewed strikes, stating he needs "the right answers" from Iran. Iran's Foreign Minister indicated readiness for either talks or continued fighting, while Iran's proposal reportedly includes demands for control of the Strait of Hormuz, reparations, and sanctions relief. The US has maintained a naval blockade on Iran since mid-April.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reported "slight progress" in talks with Iran, amid ongoing uncertainty about whether a deal will be reached or war will resume. This comes after President Trump stated he was holding off on military strikes due to "serious negotiations." Rubio's comments preceded a NATO foreign ministers meeting where the alliance might discuss policing the Strait of Hormuz post-war. Despite claims of progress, a deal has not materialized, and Trump has a history of shifting deadlines and actions. Tensions have surfaced between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu over the negotiations. Meanwhile, Pakistan is actively involved in de-escalation efforts, with its interior minister visiting Tehran twice. Major sticking points persist, including Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz and U.S. blockades. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have also reportedly conducted separate attacks on Iran and Iranian-backed militias in Iraq.

Iran has announced an expansion of its claimed military control over the Strait of Hormuz, publishing a map asserting "armed forces oversight" across more than 22,000 sq km of the waterway. This expanded claim extends into the territorial waters of Oman and the UAE. Iran's newly established "Persian Gulf Strait Authority" stated that all transit through the strait requires its coordination and authorization. The UAE has rejected these claims, calling them "fragments of dreams" and asserting its maritime sovereignty. The US and Gulf allies have consistently opposed Iran's attempts to control the strait, with the US advising ships not to comply with Iran's regulations. Iran has not ratified the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which guarantees safe passage.

Iran has submitted a new 14-point proposal to the United States via Pakistan, aiming for a permanent end to the ongoing war. This plan is reportedly a response to a prior nine-point US proposal that focused on a two-month ceasefire. Iran's latest offer emphasizes resolving all issues within 30 days, seeking guarantees for a lasting peace. President Trump is currently reviewing the proposal but has expressed uncertainty about reaching a deal, citing mistrust between the two nations. The conflict, which began with US and Israeli attacks on Iran in February, has involved a naval war in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran imposing a de facto blockade and the US maintaining a naval blockade of Iranian ports, despite a ceasefire initiated on April 8. Key US demands include Iran ending its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and addressing its nuclear capabilities.

President Trump stated he will review a new 14-point peace proposal from Iran, delivered via Pakistan, but expressed skepticism. He believes Iran has not yet "paid a big enough price" for its actions. This proposal reportedly includes US troop withdrawal from surrounding areas, lifting the blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, releasing frozen assets, compensation, and ending the war on all fronts. Iran's deputy foreign minister indicated the decision for diplomacy or confrontation rests with the US. Washington insists on a deal preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, a claim Iran denies. The US has also warned shipping companies against paying Iran for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

President Donald Trump stated that he is "not satisfied" with Iran's latest peace proposal to end the ongoing war, which was conveyed through Pakistani mediators. Trump indicated that Iran is requesting terms he cannot accept, and expressed uncertainty about reaching a deal. He warned of potential military action if negotiations fail. The conflict, which began in late February, has resulted in thousands of deaths and a global energy crisis, with a ceasefire currently in its third week. International efforts are focused on achieving a deal to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is conducting a diplomatic tour of Pakistan, Russia, and Oman to garner support for a proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This initiative defers discussions on Iran's nuclear program with the United States to a later stage. Araghchi met with Pakistani officials, including the Army Chief, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with senior intelligence officials from several countries reportedly attending talks in Muscat. Iran has submitted its proposal to Pakistan, which is acting as an intermediary with the US following failed direct talks. While the White House has not confirmed the proposal's details, a spokesperson stated the US will prioritize American interests and prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. US President Trump has indicated Iran knows what is required to avoid nuclear proliferation.

Russia's political support for Iran and its stance against military escalation are more significant than military aid in the current conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel. This position, solidified by a 2025 treaty, prioritizes peace over short-term gains like rising oil prices, which Russia recognizes as insufficient for economic restructuring amid Western sanctions. Moscow's strategic focus is on conflict resolution and mitigating negative consequences such as humanitarian crises, global economic slowdowns, and financial instability. Iran views Russia's stance as beneficial, having successfully withstood attacks and secured a favorable diplomatic position with limited international support for the US and Israel. European allies have shown reluctance to engage militarily, perceiving little benefit in the conflict.