Trump Urges Several Countries to Send Warships to Protect Strait of Hormuz Amid Ongoing Conflict
Donald Trump, President of the United States, has called on China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom to deploy warships to the region to safeguard oil tankers and keep the Strait of Hormuz open amid the third week of the ongoing war. This request comes as U.S. officials report that disruptions in maritime traffic through this critical passageway have posed challenges to the oil supply chain.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital energy transit routes, was blocked by Iran during the second week of the conflict. This strategic waterway is the passage for a significant portion of the world’s exported oil, and any restrictions there impact global energy markets.
Despite Washington’s appeal, none of the mentioned countries have publicly agreed to send warships so far. The U.S. Department of Defense stated that discussions with allies and partners to explore various options to secure maritime navigation in the area are ongoing.
China has responded cautiously, emphasizing its desire for an immediate halt to the conflict and calling on all parties to ensure sustainable and unobstructed energy supply. Japan has formally rejected the request, with officials stating Tokyo will act based on its independent decision-making.
France has announced that its aircraft carrier and accompanying group will remain in the eastern Mediterranean and that it has no plans to deploy to the Strait of Hormuz. South Korea said it is carefully reviewing the U.S. request and will maintain close contact with Washington on this matter.
The cautious, and in some cases negative, responses from these countries indicate that major economic powers are reluctant to become directly involved in the ongoing war. They prefer to pursue diplomatic channels or measured positions. This approach may influence the scope and direction of future developments in the region.
