Trump criticizes Western partners after allies refuse to protect Strait of Hormuz

U.S. allies decline Trump’s request to send warships to Strait of Hormuz (File image)

Several U.S. allies have declined President Donald Trump’s request to dispatch warships to escort shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, drawing criticism from the president, who accused Western partners of ingratitude after decades of U.S. support.

The U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran has entered its third week, effectively shutting the strategic waterway through which 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas flows, raising energy prices and global inflation concerns.

Trump said he had asked about seven countries to send warships to keep the Strait open, negotiating with nations dependent on Middle East crude to join a coalition. European countries, however, sought clarity on the war’s duration before committing.

Meanwhile, military strikes continued across the region. The U.S. and Israel targeted military sites in Tehran, Israel escalated operations against Iran-backed militants in Lebanon, and Iran launched a drone strike that caused no injuries but temporarily closed Dubai’s airport and ignited a fuel tank fire that was quickly contained.

Tehran accused the U.S., without presenting evidence, of using “ports, docks and hideouts” in the UAE to strike Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export terminal. Brent crude was trading near $105 per barrel Monday amid the unrest.

Some European nations, including Germany, Spain, and Italy, confirmed they had no immediate plans to send ships. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said, “We lack the mandate from the United Nations, the European Union or NATO required under the Basic Law… That is why the question of how Germany might become militarily involved here does not arise.”

Trump expressed frustration at the reluctance of some long-standing allies hosting U.S. troops, noting that several countries had offered support but others remained hesitant.