US President Calls Coalition to Reopen Vital Oil Waterway After Iran Disruptions—Brent Surges Over $104.50 as China Beijing Trip Hangs
Japan PM Shigeru Ishiba and Australia deny plans to send navy vessels through Strait of Hormuz despite Trump’s urgent coalition call.
US President Donald Trump has demanded Japan, Australia, China, and European allies deploy navy ships to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most critical oil chokepoint, amid Iranian disruptions from US-Israel strikes. Japan and Australia stated on Monday (March 16, 2026) they have no plans to dispatch naval vessels, while Trump threatens to delay his Beijing visit if China doesn’t support.
Global Response to Trump’s Call
Japan PM Shigeru Ishiba told parliament: “We have not been asked and will not send naval ships to assist in reopening the strait.” Australia’s Indo-Pacific ally confirmed no request received.
Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One: “I’m demanding that those countries come in and protect their own territory because it is their territory. It’s the place from which they get their energy”.
Oil Market Turmoil Intensifies
With US-Israel war on Iran shaking West Asia, nations relying 20% on Gulf oil face crisis. Brent crude rose >1% above $104.50; Asian markets weakened after Trump’s comments enlisting others to safeguard strait.
US officials predict war ends within weeks; high oil prices expected short-term.
Trump’s China Ultimatum
Trump told Financial Times: “I think China should help too because China gets 90% of its oil from the Straits.” He may delay Beijing visit end-month if no support: “We may delay”.
Chinese Foreign Ministry yet to respond.
European NATO Reluctance
British PM Keir Starmer discussed need with Trump (March 15); Mark Carney says would carefully review request. South Korea weighs independently. Read here. NATO foreign ministers discuss Monday but no naval bolstering expected.
Trump warned NATO faces “very bad future” if members fail Washington.
Strait Disruptions: Iran Drone Strikes
Iranian vessels continue passing but few others; tanker traffic lowest since Feb 28 US-Israel attack starting intense bombing hitting thousands targets. Drone strikes claimed 34 intercepted by Saudi at intercepted temp fuel tank.
Dubai airport Iran military capabilities targeted.
Iranian Defiance Escalates
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on CBS: “We have never asked for a ceasefire, we have never asked even for negotiations. We are ready to defend ourselves for as long as it takes”.
Iran maintains “stable and strong” despite strikes.
Economic Impacts Table
Trump’s Coalition Strategy
Post-florida rally, Trump identifies China, France, Japan, South Korea, Britain constrained by war-renouncing constitution. Ishiba: “We cannot examine what Japan can do independently without legal framework”.
Australia’s Anthony Albanese cabinet: “We know how incredibly important that is, but that’s not something we’ve been asked”.
Historical Precedents: Tanker Wars
1980s Iran-Iraq tanker war saw US “Operation Earnest Will” escorting. Current crisis echoes with Iran mining threats.
Asian Energy Vulnerabilities
Japan/Australia get bulk energy via Hormuz. Trump’s “protect own territory” resonates but allies cautious amid China tensions.
US-Israel Campaign Progress
US traffic: Successful crossings despite closures. Iran wants negotiate per Trump; Araghchi disputes.
Potential Beijing Summit Delay
End-month Xi meeting might postpone without Gulf support. Trump leverages economic pressure.
NATO Summit Implications
March foreign ministers unlikely commit naval mission. European Union mission West Asia discussed but not expected.
Oil Price Forecast Amid Escalation
Analysts predict $120/barrel if strait fully blocked. Gulf states ramp Saudi output.
Regional Alliances Tested
Indo-Pacific QUAD strains as Australia prioritizes own security. Japan constitution limits offensive navy role.
Diplomatic Maneuvers Ahead
Downing Street: Discussed with Canadian PM Mark Carney. Trump ratchets pressure.
Global Energy Security at Stake
20% world oil via Hormuz; disruptions threaten recession. Trump’s multilateral push faces resistance.
Outlook: Coalition or Solo US Action?
Allies hedge; US may lead unilateral escorts. China silence looms large.