‘De-escalation’: Europe hesitates as US pushes for Hormuz naval mission
The UK and France are not seeking confrontation with Iran in the US-Israeli war Europe largely rejected, say analysts.
AI Summary
The US has struggled to persuade European allies, including the UK and France, to join a naval coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz, as analysts say European governments are deeply cautious about being drawn into a confrontation with Iran. While the UK and France had previously agreed to lead such a defensive mission, they now appear reluctant to move forward without clear regional demand or support from Gulf partners. The stalled effort reflects Europe's broader rejection of the US-Israeli war and its unwillingness to escalate tensions with Iran.