In a 15/3 interview, US President Donald Trump stated he expects Europe to help resolve the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, just as the United States supported Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil shipping route, has been almost entirely blockaded by Iran since conflict erupted on 28/2, causing global energy prices to surge.
"If there is no response, or a negative response, I think that would be very bad for NATO's future", the US President stated. For many years, Trump has frequently criticized the military alliance for relying on US resources.
The US President also expressed his expectation that China would help alleviate the blockade in the strait before he visits Beijing later this month to meet President Xi Jinping. If it proceeds, this would be his first trip to China in his second term.
"I think China should also help because 90% of the oil they use comes from this strait. If we wait until the summit, it will be too late. We want to know before then. Two weeks is a long time", he said, adding that the trip to China might be postponed, but without specifying the duration of the delay.
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US President Donald Trump speaks to reporters before boarding Air Force One at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, on 13/3. Photo: AFP |
Trump noted that, compared to the United States, China and many European nations are more dependent on oil from the Persian Gulf. "It is completely reasonable for those countries benefiting from this shipping route to join forces to ensure nothing bad happens there", he emphasized.
When asked about specific assistance, the US President stated he needs mine sweepers, a type of vessel Europe possesses in abundance compared to the United States, as well as forces capable of removing "evil actors operating along the Iranian coast".
NATO and China have not yet responded to the US President's statements.
The White House head on 14/3 urged China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom to send warships to escort oil tankers through the strait, but many of those nations responded cautiously.
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Strait of Hormuz. Graphics: WSJ |
The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran erupted on 28/2, resulting in over 2,000 fatalities so far, with its duration remaining uncertain. Iran's attacks on oil and cargo ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz have caused significant volatility in the oil market. Crude oil prices have risen considerably over the past two weeks due to concerns about supply disruption risks.
US WTI oil on 15/3 increased by 2,5%, reaching 100,22 USD per barrel, while Brent oil rose by 2,9% to 106,11 USD per barrel.
On 14/3, Trump stated that Iran desired a ceasefire agreement, but Tehran rejected this, asserting it saw "no reason to engage in dialogue with the United States". However, according to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Tehran is willing to negotiate with countries interested in discussing the passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz.
By Huyen Le (According to Financial Times, AFP)
