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Monday, Apr 13, 2026

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Trump Calls on France and UK to Help Safeguard Strait of Hormuz Shipping Route

US president urges allied nations to deploy naval support to secure vital global oil corridor amid escalating tensions with Iran.
US President Donald Trump has called on France, the United Kingdom and other major economies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime corridor for global energy supplies, as tensions with Iran threaten the stability of international shipping.

In public remarks and statements shared online, Trump urged countries that depend heavily on oil shipments passing through the narrow Gulf waterway to contribute naval forces to protect commercial vessels.

The call reflects growing concern that attacks on tankers and the threat of sea mines could disrupt the passage of energy exports from the Middle East to global markets.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes.

Roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through the narrow channel between Iran and Oman, making its security essential for energy markets and international trade.

In recent weeks, maritime traffic through the strait has dropped sharply as insurers, shipowners and governments reassess the risks posed by escalating hostilities.

Trump said the United States is prepared to take a leading role in protecting shipping lanes, including deploying naval escorts for tankers if necessary.

He emphasized that maintaining the free flow of energy is a global responsibility and encouraged allied nations to participate in securing the route.

The appeal comes during a period of intense regional instability following military strikes and retaliatory attacks linked to the ongoing conflict with Iran.

A number of vessels have reportedly been targeted in and around the strait, further raising fears that the waterway could become effectively impassable for commercial shipping.

While Washington has signalled readiness to escort ships and provide security guarantees, officials and analysts note that a multinational effort would be more effective in ensuring sustained protection for maritime traffic.

European governments are already exploring options to deploy naval forces in defensive escort roles once conditions allow shipping to resume safely.

The request places particular attention on European allies such as France and the United Kingdom, both of which maintain naval capabilities capable of contributing to maritime security operations in the Gulf region.

Discussions among allied governments are ongoing as they evaluate how best to support efforts to stabilize the shipping corridor.

Ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz has become a central strategic concern as the conflict with Iran continues to affect global energy markets.

With oil prices reacting sharply to disruptions in the waterway, governments across the world are closely watching diplomatic and military developments in the region.
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