Trump's Call for Allies to Secure Strait of Hormuz Meets Tepid Responses
Trump has expressed frustration with the lack of allied support, noting the U.S. may need to proceed largely on its own to ensure safe passage for commercial shipping.
RWTNews Staff
President Donald Trump urged China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom to deploy warships to help secure and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but most nations offered limited or no commitments amid Iran's ongoing blockade.
In Truth Social posts on March 14-15, 2026, Trump emphasized that countries heavily reliant on Middle East oil should share the responsibility, stating the U.S. would provide substantial support and coordination for a swift resolution. He warned that failure to act could prolong disruptions to global energy supplies.
Responses from the targeted nations were largely cautious or negative:
- Japan explicitly ruled out sending its navy into the Persian Gulf.
- France indicated willingness to send warships only after immediate dangers subside.
- South Korea said it would continue close communication with the U.S. but made no firm pledge.
- The United Kingdom expressed interest in keeping the strait open but focused on ending the conflict first rather than committing forces.
- China called for peace and de-escalation without indicating any military involvement.
The outreach comes as U.S. forces continue operations to neutralize Iranian threats in the region, including recent strikes on military assets near the strait. The waterway, which carries about one-fifth of global oil trade, has been disrupted since late February, driving up energy prices.
Trump has expressed frustration with the lack of allied support, noting the U.S. may need to proceed largely on its own to ensure safe passage for commercial shipping.