Several U.S. allies rejected Donald Trump’s request to send warships to escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, drawing criticism from the president. He said some long-time partners were not showing enough support after years of U.S. protection.
The war between the U.S., Israel, and Iran has entered its third week, with no clear end. The Strait of Hormuz—used to transport about 20 per cent of the world’s oil and gas—has been largely blocked, pushing energy prices higher and raising concerns about inflation.
Countries such as Germany, Spain, and Italy said they have no immediate plans to send ships. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said there is no legal approval from groups like the UN or NATO, and that Germany was not consulted before the conflict began.
Meanwhile, fighting continues across the region. Israel says it still has thousands of targets in Iran, while Iran has warned it will strike U.S. facilities and allies in response. Drone attacks have hit key locations, including airports and oil sites, increasing tensions.
Despite the violence, oil prices have recently eased slightly, as some tankers have started moving through the strait again.
