Iran Locks Down Hormuz, Donald Trump Pressures NATO and China After Allies Refuse Warships

Washington: Amidst America's efforts regarding the Strait of Hormuz, US President Donald Trump currently seems to be alone on the diplomatic front. Trump has claimed that he is in talks with about seven countries to keep this strategic sea route open and a joint naval alliance may be announced soon. However, till now no major country has openly supported this initiative nor has any country made a clear announcement of sending its warships.

Is Trump trying to create a 'Hormuz Coalition'?

According to US media reports, the Trump administration is trying to form an international naval alliance to protect ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The White House says that talks are going on with many countries on this issue and some countries may be ready to escort the ships. However, no formal announcement has been made yet regarding this possible alliance.

Are they putting the responsibility on oil importing countries?

While talking to reporters in Air Force One, Trump said that the countries whose oil passes through this sea route should also take responsibility for its security. He said that America gets relatively less oil through this route, whereas a large part of the energy supply of many Asian countries including China depends on this route. Trump says that such countries should come forward and play a role in the security of the sea route.

Did Britain and China also maintain distance?

Britain has also adopted a very cautious stance on this issue. At present, London's side has only said that the situation is being monitored and the door to talks is open, but no military involvement has been said clearly. On the other hand, China has also not given any concrete response regarding this proposal. In such a situation, most of the countries from which America was expected to get open support are either silent or are expressing their stand with great caution.

Was Trump angry with the attitude of his allies?

US President Donald Trump has indicated that he did not like the cold attitude of the allies on the issue of the Strait of Hormuz. According to reports, Trump told NATO countries that if they do not support America in keeping this important sea route open, the alliance's relations may be affected in the future. He also indicated that the decision on the proposed summit meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping will be taken only after observing the situation and if necessary, it can be extended further.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz so important?

The Strait of Hormuz is counted among the most important sea routes in the world. A large amount of crude oil and gas originating from the Persian Gulf reaches the global market through this route. This is the reason why any tension arising in this area does not remain only regional, but its impact is visible on the energy market and maritime trade of the entire world. Due to the increasing tension between America and Iran, the international community is keeping a special eye on this strait.