Australia has declined a request from US President Donald Trump to deploy naval vessels to the Strait of Hormuz, as the White House intensifies pressure on allies to help secure the vital waterway. Transport Minister Catherine King told the national broadcaster that Australia would not be sending a ship, stating, 'That is not something we’ve been asked or we’re contributing to.'
Trump, in an interview with the Financial Times, warned that failure by European allies to assist would be 'very bad' for the future of NATO. He argued that it was 'only appropriate' for countries benefiting from the strait to help protect it. The de facto closure of the waterway by Tehran, in retaliation for US and Israeli airstrikes, has caused the largest oil supply disruption in history and sent global prices soaring.
Japan has also ruled out sending vessels, with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirming no plans to dispatch ships. Tokyo began releasing oil reserves for the first time since 2022 to alleviate supply concerns. Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi noted that what is technically possible and what is advisable are different matters.
The United Kingdom is considering sending aerial minesweepers to clear the waterway, but officials cautioned that sending ships could escalate the conflict. France said its current posture aims at regional stability rather than escalation. South Korea stated it would decide after careful review.
Trump also hinted at delaying a summit with China’s President Xi Jinping, urging Beijing to help unblock the strait, as China relies on it for 90% of its oil. The president has reportedly contacted seven countries for support, though none have yet committed.
