US allies have rejected Trump's call for naval support in the Strait of Hormuz, amid rising tensions and concerns over regional conflict.
US allies have rebuffed President Donald Trump's call to send ships to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, reports Reuters. The waterway has been effectively closed by Iranian drones, missiles, and mines following US-Israeli attacks.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius questioned what European frigates could achieve that the US Navy could not, stating that Germany would not be drawn into the conflict. Government spokesman Stefan Kornelius added that neither Washington nor Israel had consulted Europe before the war.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas mentioned that the bloc is exploring options with the United Nations, including adapting its Aspides naval mission, which currently protects shipping in the Red Sea. However, Greece, which leads Aspides, stated that its role would remain limited to the Red Sea.
Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer indicated that the UK would work with allies on a collective plan to secure navigation, noting that mine-hunting systems could be deployed but stressing that the country would not be drawn into a wider war.
Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen urged Europe to keep an open mind about contributing to reopening the strait while emphasizing the need for de-escalation. Spain and Italy ruled out participation, with Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini warning that sending ships would mean entering the war.
China stated that it is engaging in discussions with all sides to de-escalate tensions. The Strait of Hormuz handles about one-fifth of global oil shipments, making its closure a critical issue for international trade.
