Europe is set to sideline US President Trump due to his confrontational stance on Iran. French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will host a diplomatic summit with the UK in Paris to address the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, excluding Trump. Macron emphasized the need to reopen the strait promptly.
The summit, which will involve non-belligerent countries, aims to establish a multilateral and defensive mission to ensure free navigation in the strait under safe conditions. This move comes as European countries increasingly exclude Trump from discussions on the Middle East post-war scenario.
While the White House asserts the success of the existing blockade in the strait, Trump had previously declared the strait as permanently open following talks with Xi Jinping. French diplomats argue that Trump’s involvement could impede diplomatic progress, although British officials are concerned that alienating the US may provoke further tension.
The coalition’s primary goal is to ensure the safety of shipping in the strait post-conflict, focusing on rescue operations, demining, and military coordination. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot emphasized the necessity of regional stability before deploying the mission. Germany is expected to join the operation as well.
Throughout the conflict, Trump has criticized NATO allies for not aiding the US in securing the strait, even hinting at withdrawing from the alliance. His recent social media post underscored the need for pressure to prompt action from NATO members.