Washington, D.C. , 17 March (H.S.): President Donald Trump announced that Secretary of State Marco Rubio will soon unveil a multinational coalition tasked with securing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil shipments now imperiled by Iran's disruptions amid the escalating U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict.
Speaking amid the war's third week, Trump expressed optimism that nations reliant on the strait—including potential partners like France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom—would contribute naval assets to escort commercial vessels and restore passage.
Trump revealed direct overtures to European leaders, noting French President Emmanuel Macron's apparent receptiveness to bolstering Gulf shipping lanes, while acknowledging Britain's more reserved stance under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who prioritizes defensive measures over offensive entanglement.
The initiative mirrors past multinational naval efforts to safeguard trade routes, aiming to distribute operational burdens and lend legitimacy to the mission as oil prices surge from the blockages.
No formal commitments have materialized yet, with allies consulting internally on responses to Trump's urgent appeals.
Conflict's Military and Economic Ripples
The push follows joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on February 28 that targeted Iranian nuclear sites, military installations, and leadership, reportedly slashing Tehran's drone and missile capabilities by over 90% through strikes on more than 7,000 targets.
Iran retaliated by seizing control of the strait—through which 20-21 million barrels of oil transit daily, comprising roughly one-fifth of global supply—halting most Western-allied shipping while selectively permitting passage for vessels from China, India, Turkey, and others.
Trump suggested Tehran may seek negotiations to de-escalate, though uncertainties persist over its fragmented leadership.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
