U.S. President Donald Trump called on other nations to take responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing its strategic importance primarily benefits countries reliant on oil shipments through the passage. Speaking to the media aboard Air Force One on March 13, 2026, Trump stated, “I’m demanding that these countries come in and protect their own territory, because it is their territory. It’s the place from which they get their energy.” He specifically highlighted China, noting that about 90% of its crude imports traverse the strait, while the U.S. only depends on it for “1%, 2%” of its oil. Despite his assertion, analysts argue that China has diversified its energy supplies in recent years to mitigate risks associated with potential disruptions in the region.
As oil prices hovered around $100 per barrel, with U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures at $99.32 and global benchmark Brent at $104.84, the economic stakes remained high. Edward Fishman, a director at the Council on Foreign Relations, pointed out the Trump administration’s lack of consultation with allies in Europe and Asia before initiating military action against Iran, which could complicate potential partnerships. He noted that these allied nations depend heavily on oil imports from the Gulf, which raises the question of what they might expect in exchange for their assistance.
Recently, Trump expressed on Truth Social that many countries, particularly those affected by Iran’s actions, would collaborate with the U.S. by sending naval forces to keep the Strait of Hormuz secure. However, as of now, no country has confirmed such plans. Reports indicate that the U.S. Navy has declined repeated requests from the shipping industry to escort vessels through the strait, citing heightened risks. Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced that there are no intentions to deploy naval vessels in the area, while Australia and New Zealand followed suit, indicating they have not received such requests.
Trump indicated that discussions were ongoing with about seven nations regarding the matter but criticized NATO for what he perceives as a lack of support, stating, “We’re always there for NATO… And it’ll be interesting to see what country wouldn’t help us with a very small endeavour, which is just keeping the strait open.” Despite claims from Trump that Iran has been weakened militarily, recent drone and missile attacks in Dubai and Israel suggest that hostilities remain active.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical artery for global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, accounting for approximately one-fifth of the world’s total. In light of the current situation, several European countries are discussing plans to resume commercial shipping in the strait, with the European Union considering an expansion of its Aspides naval mission, currently operating in the Red Sea, to include protection measures in the Hormuz corridor.
While EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas acknowledged the importance of ensuring the strait’s safety, she emphasized that any operational expansions would require unanimous agreement among member states. In a notable development, Trump mentioned that British Prime Minister Kier Starmer had offered to deploy aircraft carriers to assist in the region but voiced that such support should have been proactive before any conflict arose. As tensions escalate, the global community watches closely to see if diplomatic or military solutions will materialize to maintain stability in this vital shipping channel.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/16/trump-demands-allies-secure-strait-of-hormuz-oil-iran.html
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Publish Date: 2026-03-16 14:51:00
