NATO Allies State: This Is Not Our War
March 17, Kathmandu. Following the killing of over 40 officials including Iran’s Khamenei, the United States initially considered the conflict a major success. However, after 17 days, the situation has changed with no clear end to the war in sight.
In response, Iran has halted oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, significantly impacting the global economy. Former US President Donald Trump is currently urging NATO allies to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
However, these countries have collectively decided not to participate in any military operations in the Strait. NATO’s decision came even as Trump issued warnings, reflecting concerns that if these key maritime routes are not kept open, the very existence of NATO could be jeopardized in the future.
Germany’s Response: This Is Not Europe’s War
Germany has made it clear that it will not partake in any military action. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated there has been no decision regarding Germany’s military contribution. While he acknowledged the need for a change in Iran’s current government, he emphasized that bombing is not the right solution.
Germany’s Defense Minister Boris Pistorius also questioned the US: “This is not Europe’s war, and with such a powerful US Navy, what can European ships realistically achieve?”
UK’s Position
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed a clear reluctance to involve the country in a large-scale war. He highlighted the necessity of reopening the Strait of Hormuz to stabilize oil markets but noted this is a complex task requiring consensus among many nations.
European countries have prioritized diplomatic solutions over military intervention. Since the Strait of Hormuz facilitates approximately 20% of the world’s oil and gas supply, its security and openness are critical, though currently disrupted by Iran.
Italy’s Viewpoint: Dialogue, Not War
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized that the crisis must be resolved through dialogue. Italy has no plans to increase naval deployments. He pointed out that current European Union missions focus on preventing piracy and defense, and these cannot be converted into war operations. Similarly, Australia, France, and Japan have confirmed they will not send warships.
European Union Rejects Trump’s Appeal
Trump has pressured allies, arguing that any country benefiting from the Strait of Hormuz must share in its security. While particularly dissatisfied with the UK, he nonetheless expects their participation.
However, EU foreign ministers have refused to extend their Red Sea mission to the Strait of Hormuz. EU foreign policy chief Kaija Kallas confirmed that there are currently no plans to expand the mission’s scope.
European nations seek clarity regarding the US and Israel’s objectives in the war. Estonia’s foreign minister mentioned the need to understand Trump’s strategy and forthcoming plans.
Israel’s Preparations: War Plan for Three Weeks
Israel claims to have conducted large-scale attacks on many Iranian cities, including destroying an aircraft linked to former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Israeli military has drafted war plans for the next three weeks. Military spokesperson Nadav Shoshani said on Monday, “There are separate plans for periods beyond that.”
The campaign’s limited objective is to weaken Iran’s capabilities that pose a threat to Israel, including ballistic missile infrastructure, nuclear facilities, and security installations.
The Israeli military stated there are thousands of additional potential targets in Iran. However, US President Trump stated last week that there are “almost no targets left” to strike in Iran.
Iran’s Warning
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the country does not seek war but warned that if conflict occurs, it must end decisively so the enemy dares not attack again.
A senior Iranian official cautioned, “If US forces land on the ground, they might suffer a consequence similar to Vietnam.”
In this conflict, approximately 200 American soldiers have been wounded, many of whom have returned to duty. So far, 13 US soldiers have died. Reports indicate over 1,800 fatalities in Iran, including a significant number of civilians.
Israeli Ground Attacks in Lebanon
Israel has intensified ground operations in southern Lebanon targeting Hezbollah. Over 850 people, including more than 100 children, have died in Lebanon due to this conflict.
Germany condemned the ongoing ground attacks in Lebanon as wrong and warned Israel that it would exacerbate the humanitarian situation.
(With agency contributions)