- By Aditya Jha
- Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:30 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Iran War 2026: The European nations have bluntly declined US President Donald Trump's requests to join the American navy to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. While declining his requests, the US' allies stated that they would not actively participate in the war, further assuring diplomatic support. The European nations are hesitant to join the ongoing conflict due to several reasons, including high inflation and their indirect involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war.
'Not The War We Started'
Earlier on Monday, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius stated that the country will not participate in the war, further assuring diplomatic assistance in clearing Hormuz. "This is not our war. We have not started it," said Pistorius. "What does...Trump expect a handful or two handfuls of European frigates to do in the Strait of Hormuz that the powerful US Navy cannot do?" he further asked.
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'Nothing To Do With NATO'
Trump has warned that NATO will have a very uncertain future if the European nations do not participate in the war, adding that the US suffered massive loss in the Russia-Ukraine war. However, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that the European nations too wanted a smooth ship movement through the Hormuz. "They will be discussing a way to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but that doesn’t necessarily mean sending warships," Kallas said.
High Inflation
Several European nations, including Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom, are dealing with high inflation, especially after breaking ties with Russia. A direct involvement in the war would mean a further dent in their economy, leading to higher inflation.
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Trump's Ties With Allies
Trump's relationship with America's closest allies has not been smooth since he took charge as the president back in 2024. On several occasions, the US president did not hesitate to mock his closest allies, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
