Japan and Australia have declined to send naval vessels to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz after President Donald Trump urged allies to form a coalition to reopen the critical waterway. The call comes as the United States and Israeli war with Iran enters its third week, disrupting global energy flows and pushing oil prices higher amid heightened regional instability.

Trump said countries that depend heavily on Gulf energy supplies have a responsibility to safeguard the strait, through which about 20% of the world's energy passes. He indicated that several nations had been contacted and suggested he could delay a planned visit to Beijing if China does not assist. He also warned that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization could face serious consequences if members fail to support Washington's efforts.

European foreign ministers are set to discuss strengthening an existing naval presence in the Middle East, though no immediate expansion into the blocked strait is expected. Meanwhile, drone attacks have continued across the Gulf, briefly disrupting operations at Dubai's main airport and prompting interceptions in Saudi Arabia.

Despite claims from Washington that Iran's military capacity has been significantly reduced, Tehran insists it remains prepared to defend itself and denies seeking a ceasefire or negotiations. United States officials have expressed confidence that the conflict could end within weeks, predicting that energy markets would stabilize if tensions ease.