Trump Urges Allies, China to Secure Strait of Hormuz, Threatens NATO
Washington is intensifying pressure on its allies and China to ensure the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil supplies, as the conflict in the Middle East enters its 17th day. The move comes amid escalating tensions and rising oil prices, raising concerns about potential disruptions to the world’s energy market.
President Donald Trump warned that NATO faces a “very lousy” future if member states do not assist the United States in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which is largely controlled by Iran and through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil production typically passes. “If there is no response, or if that response is negative, I think that will have very bad consequences for the future of NATO,” Trump said in an interview with the Financial Times.
The U.S. President also indicated that a planned summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing in early April could be postponed if China does not contribute to securing the strait. This development underscores the growing importance the U.S. Places on international cooperation to address the situation in the Middle East.
Trump is seeking to form a coalition of countries to safeguard the strategic Strait of Hormuz, specifically mentioning France, China, Japan, the United Kingdom, and South Korea. However, as of Sunday, no nation has publicly committed to joining Washington’s efforts, according to Radio France.
Oil prices continued to rise Sunday, driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and fears of a sustained disruption to hydrocarbon supplies globally. The situation highlights the vulnerability of global energy markets to geopolitical instability.
Trump’s call for assistance comes as Iran has cautioned against the involvement of other countries in the conflict. The announcement could influence future diplomatic talks and potentially escalate tensions in the region. TV5 Monde reports that Trump is threatening unspecified repercussions against NATO and countries that do not align with U.S. Efforts.
The United States is aiming to reopen the strait, which has been almost entirely blocked by Iran. Le Parisien details Trump’s increasing pressure on allies to provide assistance.
