U.S. President Donald Trump urged several countries, including the United Kingdom, China, France, Japan, and South Korea, to help keep commercial shipping lanes open in the Strait of Hormuz. The appeal received mixed responses, with some nations declining to participate in any military or NATO-led operations.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the UK is working with allies on an effective plan but will not join a NATO mission or engage in a wider war. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius rejected Trump’s call, saying it was not Germany’s war. Japan’s Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi told parliament that Japan is not considering any maritime security operation under current conditions in Iran. Australia’s cabinet member Catherine King also ruled out sending warships to the area.

South Korea stated it would maintain close communication with the United States and decide after careful review. A Chinese embassy spokesperson in Washington avoided a direct comment but emphasized that ensuring stable and uninterrupted energy supplies is a shared responsibility.