Key members of NATO have declined to participate in a United States-led blockade of Iranian ports, exposing divisions within the alliance and complicating efforts to address rising tensions in the Gulf.
The disagreement follows an announcement by US President Donald Trump that American forces would enforce a blockade targeting vessels linked to Iran, warning that any Iranian ships entering restricted zones could be destroyed.
The blockade, introduced after failed negotiations with Tehran, applies to ships travelling to or from Iranian ports, particularly around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz—a key maritime corridor that carries roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies.
Despite initial expectations of allied support, major European powers, including the United Kingdom and France, have refused to join the operation, opting instead for diplomatic engagement and post-conflict stabilisation efforts.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer underscored the UK’s position, stating that the country would not be drawn into the conflict despite what he described as “considerable pressure.”
“We’re not supporting the blockade,” Starmer said, adding that his government’s priority is to avoid direct military entanglement.
France has similarly distanced itself from the US initiative. President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to convene a multinational effort aimed at restoring safe navigation in the strait once hostilities subside.
According to Macron, the proposed mission would be strictly defensive, focusing on escorting commercial vessels and ensuring freedom of navigation without engaging in combat operations.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte indicated that the alliance could still play a role in securing the strait, but only if all 32 member states agree on a unified approach.
Diplomatic sources suggest that consultations are already underway, with a potential planning meeting involving about 30 countries—including Gulf states, India, and several European nations—expected to be held in Paris or London.
The proposed mission is expected to operate independently of both the United States and Iran, deploying military vessels to reassure shipping lanes without being perceived as a party to the conflict.
However, the divergence in strategy has heightened tensions across the Atlantic. Trump has previously criticised NATO allies over burden-sharing and has suggested the possibility of reducing US military presence in Europe.
Further strain has emerged following reports that some countries denied US military aircraft access to their airspace during operations linked to the Iran conflict.
Meanwhile, regional actors have urged restraint and diplomacy. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasised that reopening the Strait of Hormuz should be achieved through negotiations rather than military escalation, warning that establishing an international force at this stage would be complex.
Since the outbreak of hostilities on February 28, Iran has largely restricted access to the strait, asserting control over passage and raising concerns about potential levies on shipping.
As divisions persist among Western allies, uncertainty continues to surround global energy flows and maritime security in one of the world’s most critical trade routes.
