US President Donald Trump has warned that the future of the NATO alliance could be at risk if member countries do not assist in efforts to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively blocked during the ongoing conflict involving Iran. The warning comes as tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East, with renewed military activity involving Israel and armed groups in neighbouring countries. Allies urged to help secure key shipping routeTrump said US allies must take a more active role in restoring access to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit corridors. Roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments normally pass through the narrow waterway linking the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. Iran’s effective closure of the route following attacks by the United States and Israel has sent energy markets into turmoil and raised concerns about global supply disruptions. The US president warned that the alliance could face serious consequences if other NATO members fail to support operations aimed at reopening the passage. Britain working with partnersBritish Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the United Kingdom was working with international partners to develop a coordinated response to the crisis. Speaking at a press conference in Downing Street, Starmer said restoring shipping access through the Strait of Hormuz was essential for stabilising global energy markets. “Ultimately, we have to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to ensure stability in the market – that is not a simple task,” he said. The prime minister added that the government was working with allies, including European partners, to assemble a collective plan aimed at restoring freedom of navigation in the region and reducing the economic impact of the conflict. He did not outline specific measures under consideration. Energy concerns and domestic support measuresThe conflict has already prompted extraordinary steps in response to rising energy costs. Starmer described the recent release of emergency oil reserves as “completely unprecedented" but said such measures alone would not be enough to calm volatile markets. He also announced a £53 million support package designed to help vulnerable households in Britain who rely on heating oil, marking the first major policy move to address the economic consequences of the widening conflict. Meanwhile, the situation on the ground in the Middle East remains tense. Israeli forces said they had begun “limited and targeted” ground operations against the militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon, as the broader regional conflict continues to expand. Reports have suggested that Iran may have begun laying naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, potentially complicating any attempt by international forces to reopen the crucial shipping route. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 16.March 2026
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