European countries push back against President Trump’s demands to send warships to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway critical for oil and gas trade. Some European leaders say they are discussing ways to assist in reopening the strait but reject sending naval ships into harm’s way. The move comes as tensions between Iran and the US escalate, with prices for gasoline and heating oil already spiking due to the conflict.
European countries are torn on how to react to President Trump’s calls for help, while also navigating their own defense obligations under NATO. Many European leaders remember the 2003 invasion of Iraq as a costly mistake and are wary of getting drawn into another war. Others argue that joining the US-led effort could lead to military losses and deeper engagement with Iran.
The situation has raised concerns about the long-term commitment of European countries to defending their own security under NATO, which President Trump has often criticized for being inadequate.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/16/world/europe/europe-iran-war-trump-hormuz-warships.html