Countries across the world have responded cautiously after Donald Trump urged several nations to deploy naval vessels to safeguard the vital shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. The appeal comes as tensions linked to the conflict with Iran have triggered volatility in global oil markets. Trump stated that he is pressing nations that rely heavily on Middle Eastern crude to help secure the passage and ensure uninterrupted maritime trade. However, he has not publicly disclosed which countries he is directly requesting assistance from. In earlier remarks, he had encouraged China, France, Japan, South Korea and the United Kingdom to contribute naval forces. Despite the diplomatic push, none of these governments have made firm commitments so far.
Chris Wright, the U.S. energy secretary, said discussions are ongoing with some of the countries mentioned earlier by Trump. In an interview with NBC News, he said the United States has remained engaged in dialogue with them and expressed optimism that China could play a constructive role in restoring maritime access through the strait. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, the office of Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that he held talks with Trump on Sunday regarding the urgent need to reopen the key shipping lane and reduce disruption to global trade. Starmer also raised the issue in a separate conversation with Canada’s leader. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump remarked that Starmer had initially been hesitant about sending British aircraft carriers into potentially dangerous waters.
China responded in a more restrained tone. Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for China’s embassy in Washington, said that all countries share a responsibility to maintain stable and uninterrupted energy supplies worldwide. He added that Beijing intends to continue engaging with relevant stakeholders to ease tensions and encourage dialogue. In South Korea, the foreign ministry acknowledged Trump’s request and said it would review the matter carefully while maintaining close coordination with the United States. Japan, however, signalled a more cautious approach. Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi told lawmakers that Tokyo is currently not considering a maritime security operation related to the situation involving Iran.
Despite Japan’s reluctance, observers expect the matter to feature prominently when Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visits the White House later this week. France has also floated the idea of a multinational naval initiative but stressed that conditions must first improve. President Emmanuel Macron said Paris is discussing a potential escort mission for commercial vessels with partners across Europe, India and Asia. However, he emphasised that such an operation would only be feasible once tensions ease and hostilities diminish. Meanwhile, Germany indicated it has no plans to participate in military action connected to the ongoing crisis.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul told ARD television that Berlin does not intend to become directly involved in the conflict. Australia has also rejected the possibility of dispatching a naval vessel to the region for now. Transport Minister Catherine King told national broadcaster Australian Broadcasting Corporation that Canberra recognises the strategic importance of the Strait but has not been asked to contribute ships and will not send one at this stage. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most significant energy chokepoints, facilitating nearly one-fifth of global oil shipments. Trump has argued that countries dependent on the route should share responsibility for protecting it as tensions in the Gulf continue to escalate.