NATO Allies Refuse to Join Trump’s Hormuz Blockade

Darwin, 14 April: Allies of the NATO have declined to support a proposed maritime blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, announced by Donald Trump, following failed weekend talks aimed at ending a six-week conflict with Iran.

Trump stated that the United States would work with other countries to halt all maritime traffic through the vital waterway. However, the U.S. military later clarified that the blockade—set to begin at 5:00 PM Monday—would apply only to vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports.

“The blockade will begin shortly. Other nations will join,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social on Sunday.

Despite this, key NATO allies including the United Kingdom and France have rejected participation.

They emphasized the importance of keeping the waterway open, noting that approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz.

The route has effectively remained disrupted since Iran shut it down following the escalation of hostilities on February 28.

The refusal has added to growing tensions between Washington and its European partners. Several countries have already denied U.S. military aircraft access to their airspace, signaling reluctance to support American operations against Iran.

In response, Trump has threatened to reconsider U.S. involvement in NATO and is reportedly weighing the withdrawal of some American troops from Europe.

“We do not support this blockade,” said Keir Starmer in an interview with the BBC. “My position is very clear—despite considerable pressure, we will not be drawn into war.”

Meanwhile, several European nations have expressed willingness to assist in reopening the strait, but only under the condition of a lasting ceasefire and guarantees from Iran that their vessels will not be targeted.

On Monday, Emmanuel Macron announced plans to host a conference with the UK and other partners to explore the formation of a multinational mission aimed at restoring safe navigation in the region.