US President Donald Trump said the US-Israeli war with Iran is unlikely to end this week but claimed it will finish soon. He also said Washington will soon name countries joining a US-led coalition to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, though many allies remain hesitant.
Several European leaders rejected or questioned joining a military mission. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz ruled out involvement, saying NATO is a defense alliance, not for interventions. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the European Union prefers diplomacy and will not expand its naval mission Operation Aspides to the strait.
Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel said Portugal will not take part. Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said existing missions like Operation Atalanta are not suited for the high-risk area. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain is working on solutions but not under a NATO mission.
Trump criticized European reluctance, while EU leaders stressed avoiding escalation. The conflict has disrupted shipping and driven up global oil prices.
Credit : CGTN