US Calls for International Help to Ensure Safe Passage Through Gulf of Hormuz

To keep the Gulf of Hormuz "open and safe," US President Donald Trump called on several countries, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, Britain, to send warships. Most countries are reluctant to be drawn into this war at a time when oil prices are roiling the global economy. According to US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, dialogue is ongoing with some countries and China was expected to be a positive partner. However, no country has yet contacted Iran, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi saying that the military will make the appropriate decision regarding safe passage for its ships. US-Iranian indirect talks were underway when the US-Israel planned Israel-US strikes began on Thursday, February 28. UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said that the Gulf of Hormuz needs to be restarted and is negotiating with friendly countries about the next steps. In response to Trump's call, the South Korea-based foreign minister said that talks were going well.