Strait of Hormuz: America may soon announce an international coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz. The purpose of this alliance, formed with the cooperation of major countries of the world, is to keep merchant ships safe from maritime threats and increasing tension. This step is being taken at a time when the conflict in the Middle East is intensifying and traffic in the strait has almost come to a standstill, which has affected global oil supply and fuel prices.
According to the report of Wall Street Journal (WSJ), the White House did not comment on this issue. According to media reports, the war situation may affect the timing of this announcement. America’s close allies have not yet given any clear answer to President Donald Trump’s appeal. Trump asked countries to send warships so that container ships can pass safely through the Strait of Hormuz. This waterway has been almost closed since the first week of March. About 20 percent of the world’s oil is transported from here. Due to stoppage of movement of ships in waterways, fuel prices have increased across the world.
Trump’s appeal and countries’ response
Trump specifically included China, France, Japan, South Korea and Britain in his call. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said that he is in talks with these countries and he hopes that China will become a “positive ally” in this matter and will help in opening the strait. However, no country has publicly shown any concrete commitment.
In Britain, Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed with Trump the importance of opening the Strait of Hormuz and also had a separate conversation with his Canadian counterpart Mark Kerry. China’s US Embassy said that it is the responsibility of all parties to ensure that the energy supply is stable and without interruption. Beijing will increase communication with relevant parties.
South Korea’s Foreign Ministry said they will take into account Trump’s appeal and carefully monitor the situation and coordinate with Washington. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is scheduled to meet Trump at the White House this week and is expected to discuss the issue directly.
French President Emmanuel Macron said that he is working on an international mission with the countries of Europe, India and Asia, but the mission will start only when the circumstances are favourable. German Foreign Minister Johann Waddefull said, “Will we soon become part of this conflict? No.” This makes it clear that Germany is reluctant to join the mission.
Increased danger in Strait of Hormuz
Iran has warned merchant ships not to cross the Strait of Hormuz, bringing maritime traffic in the region to a near standstill. Last week, explosive-laden boats allegedly sent by Iranian forces attacked two fuel tankers in Iraqi waters. These caught fire and one crew member, including an Indian citizen, died.
