President Trump said Monday he is keeping a close watch on which countries help the U.S. break Iran's chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz and reopen the critical passage to oil traffic.

This tiny stretch of water carries about 20 percent of the world’s oil. And Iran is trying to close it by mining it. US President Donald Trump has put pressure on European allies to help protect the Strait of Hormuz, warning that NATO faces a “very bad” future if its members fail to come to aid.

President Donald Trump on Monday urged allied nations to join U.S. efforts to secure the strategic Strait of Hormuz, calling it a "test of loyalty"—but key partners including Britain, Germany, Japan and Australia swiftly distanced themselves from any military role.

President Donald Trump on Monday urged allied nations to join U.S. efforts to secure the strategic Strait of Hormuz, calling it a "test of loyalty"—but key partners including Britain, Germany, Japan and Australia swiftly distanced themselves from any military role.

Global oil prices have surged by 40 to 50% as Iran attacks shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

The conflict initiated by Donald Trump has escalated into a difficult war with Iran, but European Nato allies have largely refused to support it, arguing it is not their responsibility and prioritising their own security concerns. Europe’s reluctance stems from lack of consultation, domestic opposition, and fear of weakening defenses against Russia, while instead pushing for a diplomatic resolution.

US President Donald Trump has demanded allies help secure the vital waterway. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

While some European countries said they were discussing ways to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, several rejected President Trump’s calls to send warships.

US allies have either pushed back or remained cautious on Trump's request to send ships to the crucial oil route.

PARIS, March 17 - President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday France would never take part in operations to unblock the Strait of Hormuz, pushing back on comments by U.S. President Donald Trump that Paris was willing to help. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

US President Donald Trump said most NATO allies and partners have declined to join US operations in Iran or protect the Strait of Hormuz, despite supporting US objectives, raising concerns over energy security and pushing for diplomatic solutions.

Many countries have rejected President Donald Trump’s demand to help the US seize the Strait of Hormuz from Iran’s stronghold.

President Donald Trump said Monday that some U.S. allies are not willing to join a coalition to protect tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.