Trump Urges Allies to Deploy Warships to Strait of Hormuz as Iran Blockades Key Route
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Trump Urges Allies to Deploy Warships to Strait of Hormuz as Iran Blockades Key Route

15 March, 2026.Iran.179 sources

Key Takeaways

  • Trump urged an international naval coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid Iran's blockade.
  • He said about seven countries would join, signaling broad but noncommittal support.
  • No country pledged commitments; several allies are weighing options or expressing caution.

Global Call for Naval Support

US President Donald Trump has issued a urgent appeal for international cooperation to secure the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump called on multiple nations including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom to deploy warships.

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He posted on Truth Social that affected countries would 'be sending warships, in conjunction with the United States of America.'

Trump emphasized that receiving nations 'must take care of that passage' while the US would provide extensive support.

The call came amid heightened tensions as Iran has effectively disrupted shipping through the strategic waterway.

The strait normally handles approximately one-fifth of global oil exports.

Trump indicated the US would provide comprehensive support for maritime trade through this critical energy corridor.

Iranian Blockade Strategy

Iran has maintained a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz since US-Israeli strikes began on February 28.

The International Energy Agency described this as 'the largest oil supply disruption in history.'

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@globaltimesnews@globaltimesnews

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified the strait is closed only to 'tankers and ships of enemies and their allies.'

Tehran has been 'approached by a number of countries' seeking safe passage for vessels.

Despite Trump's claims of destroying 100% of Iran's military capability, Iran continues harassing shipping.

Iran has used inexpensive and lightweight weapons to disrupt maritime traffic.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has all but closed the strait to commercial traffic.

At least 29 maritime incidents have been reported since the closure began.

Iran warns any tanker heading to US, Israel or allies is a legitimate target.

Iran has also threatened to attack energy infrastructure in neighboring countries.

International Response Hesitation

The international response to Trump's call has been cautious and largely non-committal.

At least 13 members of the U

ABC NewsABC News

Major powers are carefully weighing the risks of direct involvement in the escalating conflict.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright told NBC he had been 'in dialogue' with some countries.

He expected China 'will be a constructive partner' in reopening the strait.

China's embassy spokesperson emphasized de-escalation rather than military involvement.

South Korea's Foreign Ministry said it 'takes note' of Trump's call and will 'carefully review' the situation.

The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed it is discussing 'a range of options' but made no commitment.

Japan is also considering the request carefully ahead of Prime Minister Takaichi's meeting with Trump.

A Japanese politician noted the threshold for sending warships is 'very high.'

Global Economic Impact

The blockade has triggered severe economic repercussions across global energy markets.

Oil prices have surged by 40 percent due to the disruption.

Image from ABP Live English
ABP Live EnglishABP Live English

Shipping companies are rerouting vessels around the Cape of Good Hope.

This adds 3,500 nautical miles and weeks of delay to standard logistics.

Insurance costs have also dramatically increased.

The International Energy Agency announced emergency oil stocks totaling nearly 412 million barrels will be released.

This is described as 'by far the largest ever' coordinated release.

Asian countries plan to release stocks 'immediately' while European and American stocks will be released 'from the end of March.'

Trump's economic advisor acknowledged the price impact but downplayed long-term concerns.

Business leaders warn prolonged disruptions could lead to food shortages and supply chain issues.

Military Escalation

The conflict has escalated with recent military developments including US strikes on Kharg Island.

Kharg Island handles nearly all of Iran's oil exports.

Image from Al Jazeera
Al JazeeraAl Jazeera

Trump spared Iran's energy infrastructure 'for reasons of decency' but issued a stark warning.

He said he would 'immediately reconsider' if passage through Hormuz is interfered with.

Trump threatened to 'bomb the hell out of the shoreline' and shoot Iranian vessels.

Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei called for continued closure of the Strait.

He pledged to open new fronts in the conflict with the US and Israel.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared US-affiliated facilities as 'legitimate targets.'

The war has intensified in Lebanon with Iran-backed Hezbollah engagement.

Over 800 people have been killed and nearly 800,000 displaced in Lebanon.

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