Tensions Rise Among NATO Allies Over Trump’s Proposed Blockade of Strait of Hormuz
LONDON/PARIS: On Monday, NATO allies of the United States made it clear they do not plan to support President Donald Trump’s proposal to blockade the Strait of Hormuz. This decision highlights growing tensions within the already strained alliance.
Following unsuccessful talks over the weekend aimed at resolving a six-week conflict involving Iran, Trump announced that the U.S. military would assist in blocking all maritime traffic in the vital waterway. Later, the U.S. military clarified that the blockade would specifically target ships traveling to or from Iranian ports, set to begin at 1400 GMT on Monday.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “The blockade will begin shortly. Other countries will be involved with this blockade.”
However, key NATO members like Britain and France distanced themselves from the plan, emphasizing the importance of keeping the waterway open, which typically facilitates the passage of one-fifth of the world’s oil. They pointed out that Iran has effectively limited access since the conflict began on February 28.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated on the BBC, “We’re not supporting the blockade.” He added that, despite facing significant pressure, the UK will not engage in the war.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte recently informed European governments that Trump is seeking firm commitments to ensure the safety of the Strait of Hormuz. Rutte previously mentioned that NATO could potentially play a role if its 32 member nations agree to form a mission.
While several European countries have expressed willingness to help in the Strait, they insist this will only happen once there’s a lasting peace and an agreement with Iran to safeguard shipping routes.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to organize a conference with Britain and other nations to establish a multinational mission aimed at restoring navigation in the Strait. He mentioned that this mission would be defensive and separate from the ongoing conflict, to be deployed when conditions allow.
In addition, Britain is exploring ways to lower insurance costs for ships navigating through the Strait once fighting ceases. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized that reopening the Strait should rely on diplomatic efforts, suggesting that forming an international force to oversee it could be complicated. He also called for NATO to reconsider its relationship with Trump in light of a summit scheduled for July in Ankara.
