Middle East War Heats Up, NATO Responds to US Hormuz Blockade
NATO allies have rejected involvement in the Iranian port blockade plan announced by US President Donald Trump. This rejection could exacerbate tensions within the alliance, amid the conflict between Washington and Tehran that has lasted six weeks.
Several key European countries, such as the UK and France, have affirmed they will not participate in the blockade. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that his side rejects the move.
“We do not support the blockade. My decision is very clear that whatever the pressure, we will not be dragged into war,” he told the BBC, quoted on Tuesday (14/3/2026).
As an alternative, NATO countries are preparing an initiative to secure shipping in the Strait of Hormuz after the conflict eases. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte previously stated that the alliance could play a role if all 32 members agree to form a joint mission.
French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that his country will hold a conference with the UK and other partners to form a multinational mission.
“This fully defensive mission, separate from the conflicting parties, will be deployed as soon as the situation allows,” Macron said.
The plan includes escorting tanker ships and establishing safe routes for international shipping.
“This is about protecting shipping and supporting freedom of navigation after the conflict ends. Our common goal is a coordinated and independent multinational plan,” Starmer said in parliament.
Diplomatic sources indicate that around 30 countries, including Gulf states, India, and several European nations, could be involved in the mission. However, neither Iran nor the US will participate directly, though they will be notified.
On the other hand, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan assessed that reopening the Strait of Hormuz should be pursued through diplomatic channels. He also called for NATO to rearrange relations with Trump at the upcoming summit.
Trump previously stated that the US military would target Iranian ships approaching the blockade area, after weekend talks failed to reach a peace agreement.
“The blockade will begin soon. Other countries will be involved in this blockade,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
Initially, Washington described the blockade as involving international cooperation in the Strait of Hormuz. However, the US military later clarified that the operation would only target ships heading to or from Iranian ports.
Since the conflict erupted on 28 February, Iran has reportedly restricted access to this strategic route for most foreign ships. Tehran is also said to be attempting to strengthen control over the strait, which is a vital route for about one-fifth of global oil supplies.