U.S. President Donald Trump has called on allied nations to participate in an international naval coalition aimed at protecting oil tankers passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, as tensions with Iran continue to escalate. However, several countries have so far declined the request, highlighting divisions among U.S. partners over how to respond to the situation in the Middle East.

Located between Iran and Oman, the Strait of Hormuz is one of the most critical chokepoints in the global energy supply chain. Roughly one-fifth of the world’s traded oil passes through the narrow waterway, making it a key artery for international energy markets. In recent weeks, rising military tensions in the region have raised concerns among energy traders and shipping companies about the security of maritime routes.

Trump said his administration has asked at least seven countries that depend heavily on Gulf oil supplies to help patrol the area and ensure the safe passage of tankers. According to the president, those nations should share responsibility for safeguarding global energy commerce and maintaining stability along one of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

Despite the request, several governments have responded cautiously or rejected the proposal outright. Officials in Japan and Australia indicated that they do not plan to deploy naval vessels to the region to escort commercial ships. Other Western allies have also been reluctant to commit to a military mission that could further escalate tensions with Tehran.

The situation is further complicated by warnings from within the maritime industry and U.S. military circles. Reports indicate that the United States Navy has cautioned shipping companies that providing continuous escorts for commercial vessels in the strait could be extremely risky under current wartime conditions.

International analysts warn that control and security of the Strait of Hormuz could become one of the decisive factors in the broader Middle East conflict. Any disruption in traffic through the waterway would likely have immediate consequences for global oil prices and could trigger wider economic repercussions across international markets.