Trump signals coalition to force open Strait of Hormuz is not ready yet: 'Some are less than enthusiastic'

• German Chancellor Merz confirmed Berlin will not participate in the naval mission as long as the war continues, citing lack of consultation before hostilities began
• Oil prices have surged approximately 40% since the conflict started, representing the largest oil supply disruption in history due to plunging tanker traffic through the Strait
• U.S. Energy Secretary Wright stated the Navy cannot escort tankers yet as military resources are currently focused on destroying Iran's offensive capabilities and manufacturing infrastructure

Summary: Coalition to Reopen Strait of Hormuz Faces Allied Resistance

President Trump revealed Monday that efforts to form an international coalition to protect oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz are encountering significant resistance from key U.S. allies. The strait has experienced plunging tanker traffic due to Iranian attacks, triggering what officials describe as the largest oil supply disruption in history, with crude prices surging approximately 40% since hostilities began.

Key Developments:

• Several allied nations are "less than enthusiastic" about joining the coalition, with Trump expressing particular frustration that countries the U.S. "has been protecting for about 40 years at tens of billions of dollars" are unwilling to participate
• Germany officially declined participation, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz stating Berlin will not contribute military assets while the war continues, citing lack of consultation before the conflict
• United Kingdom shows reluctance, with PM Keir Starmer hesitant to deploy two aircraft carriers despite acknowledging the need to restore navigation freedom
• France has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean in a defensive posture, though President Macron's full commitment remains unclear

Operational Status:

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed the U.S. Navy is not currently ready to escort tankers, stating "We're simply not ready" as military assets remain focused on destroying Iran's offensive capabilities and manufacturing infrastructure.

Market Implications:

The stalled coalition effort suggests prolonged supply disruptions through this critical chokepoint, which typically handles significant global oil flows. The 40% crude price surge reflects market concerns about sustained supply constraints. Without coordinated international support, resolution timelines remain uncertain, potentially sustaining elevated energy prices and broader inflationary pressures.