European Countries Close Ranks Against Trump’s Hormuz War Calls

European nations have presented a united front in refusing to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz, despite Donald Trump’s threat that NATO’s future hung in the balance. The United States and Israel had initiated military action against Iran roughly two weeks prior, and the resulting blockade of the strait had caused significant disruption to global energy markets. European governments argued that they bore no responsibility for a conflict they had not initiated and could not be expected to provide military support without a clear shared strategy.
Germany’s position was the most absolute. Chancellor Friedrich Merz ruled out military participation entirely, arguing that bombing Iran into submission was not supported by the lessons of history. His defense minister went further, publicly questioning the logic of the American request and framing the conflict as one that the US had started and should not expect Europe to fight. The remarks reflected a broader mood in Germany of deep reluctance to be drawn into another overseas military entanglement.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the United Kingdom avoided a direct refusal while clearly positioning Britain at some distance from the conflict. He emphasized the importance of coalition-building and the need for a carefully considered plan before any action was taken. Trump acknowledged being unhappy with the UK response but suggested he still expected Britain to ultimately find a way to contribute.
Italy, France, Greece, Australia, and Japan each declined to participate in any naval mission at the strait. The EU’s foreign ministers concluded their Monday meeting without agreeing to expand Operation Aspides, and the bloc’s foreign policy chief confirmed there was no member state consensus for changing the mission’s mandate. Estonian officials pointedly called on the US to clarify its strategic objectives in the conflict before expecting allies to commit resources.
Israel announced sweeping new strikes on Iranian cities and claimed to have detailed operational plans in place for weeks ahead. A drone attack disrupted oil loading at the UAE port of Fujairah and caused brief flight disruptions near Dubai. Iran’s foreign minister rejected ceasefire talks and Iran’s deputy minister warned the US against ground troop deployment. Human rights organizations reported more than 1,800 deaths in Iran, while US forces reported 13 killed and 200 wounded since hostilities began in late February.