Trump Seeks Hormuz Naval Coalition
U.S. President Trump claims multiple countries will join a naval coalition for the Strait of Hormuz, despite public rejections from several nations.
Lauren Collins ·
The United States President Donald Trump announced on Monday, March 16, 2026, that multiple countries have indicated their intent to join an international naval coalition aimed at securing the Strait of Hormuz. This development follows Trump's appeal over the weekend for global participation in the coalition amid ongoing tensions related to the U.S.-Israel war on Iran.
While Trump did not specify which nations had committed, he stated that an official announcement would be made by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Trump had previously identified China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom as potential participants, and later extended the call to all countries receiving oil via the Strait of Hormuz, including NATO members. However, several nations have publicly declined military involvement.
France, Australia, and Japan have stated they do not intend to send military ships. Germany's Defence Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed no military participation from Berlin, though diplomatic support remains an option.
South Korea and the United Kingdom are reportedly reviewing the situation. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer indicated discussions about potentially offering mine-hunting drones but emphasized that the UK would not be drawn into a broader conflict. Despite Trump's assertions of widespread support, no country has officially confirmed its involvement in the proposed naval coalition to date.