The UK and several other European countries have not supported US President Donald Trump's call to send warships to unblock the Strait of Hormuz. Trump previously warned that it would be a bad sign for NATO if allies refused to help protect this important maritime artery, writes The Moscow Times.
Tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. Photo: AP / Altaf Qadri
Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron had spoken about the possibility of sending an aircraft carrier group to the region. However, the UK, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, and Luxembourg opposed expanding military involvement in the conflict around Iran.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted that his country does not want to get involved in a large-scale war. According to him, London, together with its allies, is seeking a collective solution that will help restore operations in the Strait of Hormuz and stabilize the oil market. Meanwhile, the UK has already deployed autonomous systems for detecting naval mines in the region.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius also rejected the US demand to send a fleet to the area, stating that it was not Germany's war. German authorities believe that the conflict should be resolved diplomatically as soon as possible, and an increased military presence would only complicate the situation. Earlier, the German Foreign Minister also emphasized that Berlin would not participate in a military operation in this region.
Greece also stated that it does not plan to conduct any military operations in the Strait of Hormuz. Athens is only willing to participate in a European Union mission to protect ships in the Red Sea.
Spain also refused to support military actions. Defense Minister Margarita Robles stated that the main goal should be to end the war as soon as possible, not to expand it. The Spanish Foreign Minister added that the country would not take steps that could further escalate the situation.
Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani also expressed doubts about expanding military missions in the area.
Luxembourg also opposed sending troops. Deputy Prime Minister Xavier Bettel stated that the country would not succumb to pressure and blackmail from the US. According to him, Luxembourg can help in the field of communication or satellite technologies but will not send troops or military equipment to the region.
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