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Europe Turns Its Back on Trump for Strait of Hormuz NATO Operation – Which Six Countries Said 'No'

Published March 16, 2026, 14:15
Europe Turns Its Back on Trump for Strait of Hormuz NATO Operation – Which Six Countries Said 'No'

Most European NATO member countries appear to be refusing to participate in a potential US-led operation to protect the Strait of Hormuz. Britain and Germany have made it clear that they do not see a scenario for sending warships to the region, while Greece, Luxembourg, Italy and Spain have also expressed their negative stance. This refusal comes after a call from Donald Trump to his allies to participate in the protection of the Strait, warning that their reluctance could jeopardize the future of NATO. Trump argued that countries benefiting from the Strait of Hormuz should contribute to its security, including China. At the same time, the Middle East is being shaken by new missile attacks, with Iran striking the largest port of the United Arab Emirates and Israel launching a new military operation in southern Lebanon. Sirens are sounding in Tel Aviv and other cities in Israel. The European refusal suggests a growing distance between Europe and the US on foreign policy and security issues, as well as a reluctance to become involved in new military conflicts in the region.