Greece, Germany rule out involvement in Strait of Hormuz operation.
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Greece, Germany rule out involvement in Strait of Hormuz operation.

17 March, 2026.Europe.1 sources

Key Takeaways

  • Greece has no plans to participate in any military operation in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Spokesman Pavlos Marinakis stated Greece will not join any military operation.
  • Germany also rules out involvement in a possible operation in the Strait of Hormuz.

European Positions

Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis stated the country has no intention of becoming involved in war.

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Marinakis clarified that Greece's involvement in the EU's Operation Shield is geographically limited to the Red Sea and does not extend to the Strait of Hormuz.

He emphasized that Greece consistently advocates for the universal application of international law.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has rejected US demands for military support in the Strait of Hormuz.

Pistorius stated Germany would not become militarily involved in the region.

US Demands

US President Donald Trump has taken a hardline stance on European involvement in securing the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump warned that NATO would face a 'very bad' future if its allies fail to help keep the crucial waterway open.

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Trump claimed he had 'demanded' that countries heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil join a coalition to escort vessels through the strait.

He did not specify which countries the White House was negotiating with.

The demands come amid heightened tensions in the region.

The US seeking broader international support for its naval presence in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

Diplomatic vs Military

Defence Minister Boris Pistorius expressed readiness to support diplomatic efforts while firmly rejecting military participation.

Pistorius made his remarks during a press conference in Berlin after meeting with his Latvian counterpart Andris Spruds.

He emphasized that 'it is not our war. We did not start it.'

This highlights Germany's cautious approach to Middle Eastern conflicts.

Australia has indicated it will not be sending a warship to the region.

Australian Preparedness

Australia has adopted a pragmatic approach to the Middle East crisis.

Focus is on domestic fuel security rather than military deployment.

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Australian Minister Catherine King said Australia is well-prepared for the 'economic crisis' caused by the ongoing conflict.

The country's fuel stockpiles are currently at 37 days of petrol, 30 days of diesel, and 29 days of jet fuel.

Australia has reduced minimum stockholding obligations and temporarily amended fuel quality standards.

This shows focus on economic preparedness rather than military involvement.

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