Several U.S. allies, including Japan, Australia, and Germany, have expressed reservations about a proposal by U.S. President Donald Trump to form an international naval coalition to secure the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
The waterway is one of the world’s most critical energy routes, with nearly 20 percent of global oil shipments passing through it. Rising tensions linked to the Iran–Israel conflict have heightened fears of disruptions to oil supply and global trade.
Germany, a key member of North Atlantic Treaty Organization, questioned whether the alliance should play any role in such an operation. Speaking in Brussels, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said NATO had not taken any decision regarding reopening the Strait of Hormuz and was unlikely to assume responsibility unless formally discussed within the alliance’s structures.
Australia also ruled out sending naval forces for the mission. Transport Minister Catherine King said Canberra recognised the importance of the strait but had not been asked to contribute to the proposed operation and had no plans to participate. She made the remarks during an interview with the state broadcaster Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
Japan similarly indicated caution. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told parliament that Tokyo had not decided to deploy naval escort ships, citing constitutional restrictions on military operations abroad. Despite importing around 95 percent of its oil from the Middle East, Japan said it would continue reviewing possible actions within its legal framework.
The responses come after Trump urged major energy-importing nations to help secure the strait amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Speaking aboard Air Force One, he argued that countries benefiting from Gulf oil should take responsibility for protecting the route.
Trump also warned that the future of NATO could be affected if allies fail to support efforts to reopen the strategic corridor, stressing that Europe should contribute more to global security efforts as the United States continues its support for Ukraine in the war with Russia.
He further suggested that a planned summit with Xi Jinping in Beijing could be delayed while Washington seeks China’s cooperation in addressing the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
The developments highlight growing global concern over the security of the vital maritime corridor, which remains a key artery for energy supplies from the Middle East to markets across Europe and Asia.
