(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – United States allies have declined President Donald Trump’s request to deploy naval forces to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions in the Middle East enter a third week and global energy markets face growing disruption.
The strategic waterway, located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, carries around 20 percent of the world’s oil supply, equivalent to roughly 20 million barrels per day. It has been largely closed following Iranian attacks on shipping using drones and missiles, in response to US and Israeli air strikes.
The disruption has already driven oil prices sharply higher, with Brent crude rising from about 73 US dollars per barrel at the end of February to over 100 US dollars. This has raised concerns over inflation and a potential global economic slowdown.
The United Kingdom has ruled out immediate military involvement. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the UK would not be drawn into a wider conflict, while stressing the need to reopen the waterway through coordinated international action. He said any response must be agreed with a broad group of partners.
The UK government has announced support for households affected by rising energy costs. A package worth 53 million pounds, equivalent to approximately 67 million US dollars, will be distributed through local authorities to assist vulnerable heating oil users.
President Trump criticised the UK’s position, stating he had expected stronger support from what he described as a key ally. He expressed frustration over what he characterised as hesitation in decision making.
European allies have also rejected calls for military participation. Germany said it would not take part in any military action, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz stating the conflict was not initiated jointly and therefore did not warrant German involvement. Italy called for diplomacy, while France, Japan and Australia confirmed they had no plans to send naval forces.
Military analysts have highlighted the risks involved in operating in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has developed extensive capabilities, including naval mines, fast attack vessels, mini submarines and drone systems. These create both surface and subsurface threats, making the area highly dangerous for conventional naval operations.
Although the US has targeted Iranian naval assets, including mine laying vessels, concerns remain about the scale of Iran’s capabilities. Modern autonomous mine detection systems have been deployed, but they have not yet been tested in combat conditions and still require support vessels.
The conflict has also expanded geographically. Israeli forces have intensified strikes on Iranian infrastructure, while operations have extended into Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah positions. Regional instability has increased, with attacks reported in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, including drone strikes on oil facilities and infrastructure near Dubai’s international airport.
Casualties continue to rise. Iranian authorities report more than 300 deaths, while the United Nations estimates over three million people have been displaced.
Diplomatic divisions have widened within the transatlantic alliance. European leaders have signalled growing reluctance to support US led military actions, while some Gulf states are reassessing their security partnerships.
