BREAKING: Germany rejects Trump’s proposal to participate in the Strait of Hormuz operation

Germany has firmly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for NATO allies to contribute naval forces to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius stated clearly on Monday that Berlin would not engage militarily in efforts to reopen the vital waterway, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil passes.

“This is not our war. We have not started it,” Pistorius said in Berlin. He questioned the need for European involvement, asking, “What does Trump expect a handful or two handfuls of European frigates to do in the Strait of Hormuz that the powerful U.S. Navy cannot do?”

The refusal comes as Trump has pressed allies to help counter Iran’s partial blockade of the strait — involving drones, mines, and attacks on shipping — which has driven global oil prices sharply higher. Trump warned over the weekend that NATO could face “a very bad future” if members fail to provide warships for the mission.

German officials emphasized that the conflict was not a NATO matter, as the alliance is designed for territorial defense and the U.S. and Israel launched operations without prior consultation with European partners. Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government spokesperson reinforced that Germany sees no basis for military participation while the war continues.

Other European nations, including France, Italy, Spain, and the UK, have similarly expressed reluctance or outright refusal to deploy forces, favoring diplomatic solutions instead. The EU has discussed protecting shipping but remains divided on expanding existing missions to the Gulf.

The standoff highlights growing transatlantic tensions as the Middle East conflict enters its third week, with no immediate signs of de-escalation. Germany has indicated willingness to support diplomatic efforts to ensure safe passage but ruled out any combat role.