French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) remain at odds regarding the potential involvement of the United States in a mission designed to secure shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. Macron announced that the goal is to prepare a “neutral mission” in the area, which, he stated following a meeting of world leaders in Paris, would be distinctly separate from the warring parties. Macron indicated that substantial military resources have already been deployed to the region to prepare for various contingencies. He emphasized, “Today’s message is one of hope, one of preparation, and one of unity. Europeans stand with the countries of the Gulf, of Asia, of Latin America, and of the Pacific. Therefore, the world stands together in this endeavor to help international law restore its rightful place”.
Meanwhile, Merz expressed his desire for U.S. participation, stating, “The skyrocketing energy prices must fall as quickly as possible, and this war must not become a trans-Atlantic stress test”. For Germany to participate in such a mission, he stipulated several conditions, including a secure legal basis, such as a resolution from the UN Security Council, a decision from the German government, a mandate from the German Bundestag, and a sound military concept. He added, “Our participation could potentially involve mine clearance or maritime surveillance-these are things we can handle. We intend to participate in further military planning talks and, if possible, welcome the involvement of the United States”.
Adding to the diplomatic friction, U.S. President Donald Trump criticized the European nations. On his personal social media platform, he wrote that after the situation in the Strait of Hormuz calmed down, he received a call from NATO asking if they needed assistance. He replied, “I told them to stay away unless they only wanted to load their ships with oil. They were useless when needed-a paper tiger”. Instead, he publicly thanked Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar for their “great bravery and assistance”.