March 16, 2026

As President Trump’s war with Iran enters its third week, European leaders are caught between his bellicose demands for help in reopening the Strait of Hormuz and their deep reluctance to be drawn into a war of America’s choosing.

Several leaders reacted with alarm and apprehension on Monday to Mr. Trump’s criticism of their lack of action, with some explicitly rejecting his call to send their navies into harm’s way even as the U.S. and Israeli-led war continues to drive up the price of global energy.

As President Trump presses European nations to deploy warships to reopen the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions with Iran, several countries have firmly rebuffed his demands, wary of being drawn into a conflict not of their making. European leaders are alarmed by Trump’s criticism of their perceived inaction and his threats to NATO's future, emphasizing their reluctance to escalate military involvement in a volatile region despite rising global energy prices. While some discussions are underway on possible support, the overall tone from Europe remains cautious and resistant, reflecting deep concerns about entering a U.S.-led confrontation with Iran.

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