Key members of NATO have refused to participate in a US-led blockade of Iranian ports, widening divisions within the alliance and complicating efforts to manage escalating tensions in the Gulf.
The rejection follows an announcement by President Donald Trump that American forces would enforce a blockade targeting vessels linked to Iran, warning that any Iranian ships approaching restricted zones could be destroyed.
The blockade, which began after failed negotiations with Tehran, applies to ships travelling to or from Iranian ports, particularly around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz a waterway that typically carries about one-fifth of global oil supplies.
Despite initial suggestions that allies would join the operation, major European powers including the United Kingdom and France have declined involvement, instead advocating diplomatic and post-conflict solutions.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer made his position clear, stating that the UK would not be drawn into the conflict despite what he described as “considerable pressure.”
“We’re not supporting the blockade,” Starmer said, adding that his government’s priority is to avoid direct military entanglement.
France has also distanced itself from the US action. President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to convene a multinational initiative aimed at restoring safe navigation in the strait once hostilities subside.
According to Macron, the proposed mission would be strictly defensive, focusing on escorting commercial vessels and ensuring freedom of navigation without engaging in combat operations.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has indicated that the alliance could still play a role in securing the strait, but only if all 32 member states agree on a unified approach.
Diplomatic sources suggest that discussions are already underway, with a potential planning meeting involving around 30 countries including Gulf states, India, and several European nations expected to take place in Paris or London.
The proposed mission would operate independently of both the US and Iran, with military vessels deployed to reassure shipping lanes without being seen as part of the conflict.
However, the divergence in strategy has added strain to transatlantic relations. Trump has previously criticised NATO allies over burden-sharing and has even raised the possibility of reducing US military presence in Europe.
Further tensions have emerged after some countries reportedly denied US military aircraft access to their airspace during operations linked to the Iran conflict.
Meanwhile, regional powers have called for diplomacy to take precedence. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stressed that reopening the Strait of Hormuz should be achieved through negotiations rather than military escalation, warning that creating an international force at this stage would be complex.
Since the outbreak of conflict on February 28, Iran has largely restricted access to the strait, asserting control over passage and raising concerns about potential levies on shipping.
As divisions deepen among Western allies, uncertainty continues to cloud the future of global energy flows and maritime security in one of the world’s most critical trade corridors.
Erizia Rubyjeana
