Consequences of the Escalations: US Pressures for Hormuz Security - Europe Not Rushing

The US is pressuring Europe to assist in patrolling the Strait of Hormuz but faces suspicion and refusal due to a perceived lack of partnership from Washington. Despite UK support for convening an international conference in London, officials warn that no significant progress has been made.

The US is pressuring its European allies to assist in joint patrols of the Strait of Hormuz but faces suspicion and refusal. According to a report in Politico, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is urging Britain and France to lead a naval coalition, but even with the help of his British counterpart Wes Streeting, he encounters resistance. The main reason: a sense of lack of partnership from Washington, which did not consult with the Europeans before starting the war in Iran in February. A European official said: "There was no consultation with Congress, no consultation with the allies, just boom." Despite London's support for convening an international conference in London to divide roles, officials warn that no progress has been made. The latest ceasefire is described as "fragile," and commercial shipping in the strait remains frozen. According to a private security company, no oil tanker crossed the strait on July 27, and tanker transits through the Bab el-Mandeb strait have dropped by 39%.