Trump urges seven nations to send warships to Hormuz
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- Trump demanded about seven countries send warships to protect the Strait of Hormuz, saying the channel is not essential for U.S. oil access and urging them to protect their own territory.
- Trump noted that China receives roughly 90% of its oil through the strait while the United States gets only a minimal amount, but he declined to confirm if China will join the coalition.
- Araghchi said Tehran has been approached by several countries for safe passage, that vessels from different nations have been allowed through, and reiterated that the strait is open to all except the United States and its allies.
- Wright said he is in dialogue with some of the countries Trump mentioned and expects China to be a constructive partner, but no nation has pledged war yet.
- Starmer discussed the importance of reopening the strait with Trump, and Trump warned that the United States will “remember” if Britain declines to put carriers in harm’s way.
- International Energy Agency updated its emergency oil stock release to nearly 412 million barrels, with Asian members planning immediate releases and European/American reserves slated for end‑of‑March, aiming to lower soaring oil prices.
- France said it is coordinating with partners in Europe, India, and Asia on a potential escort mission for ships through the strait, but stressed it can only proceed when fighting subsides.
Why it matters: The coalition request underscores U.S. reliance on multilateral naval presence to keep a key oil artery open, but the lack of commitments leaves global shipping vulnerable and forces market actors to lean on the IEA’s record‑size oil stock release to temper price spikes.
