Capitals, March 22 (SANA) European nations continue to exhibit deep-seated hesitation regarding joining the United States in its ongoing military conflict with Iran, despite intensifying pressure from the Trump administration. Leaders across the continent fear that direct military engagement could ignite an uncontrollable regional conflagration, a move that lacks the support of an increasingly anti-interventionist European public.
In the United Kingdom, Housing Minister Steve Reed clarified that President Donald Trump’s threats to strike Iranian power plants reflect a personal stance rather than a unified allied strategy. Reed emphasized that while London will protect its interests and work toward de-escalation, it will not be “dragged into the war” or engage in offensive operations.
Germany: Deep Skepticism Over War Justifications
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has voiced significant doubts regarding the justifications for the U.S.-Israeli military campaign. While acknowledging the need to prevent Iran from threatening its neighbors, Merz pointed to a lack of a clear exit strategy and insufficient consultation with European allies. Notably, Merz confirmed that Germany will not participate in military efforts to secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz as long as the current conflict persists.
France and Spain: Responding to the Public Will
French President Emmanuel Macron has reaffirmed that France is “not a party to this war,” while the Spanish government has maintained its firm refusal of military participation, citing the importance of independent decision-making. These positions are backed by a strong anti-war sentiment among the European populace; according to a recent “Elabe” poll, 70% of French citizens, 68% of Spaniards, and 58% of Germans oppose involvement in the conflict.
The Hormuz Dilemma and Energy Markets
The European reluctance coincides with rising tensions in the Arabian Gulf, where the Strait of Hormuz serves as a vital artery for nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. The partial closure of the strait has already triggered a global surge in oil prices, leading European capitals to focus on stabilizing energy markets rather than launching a military confrontation that could further disrupt supply chains.
Strategic Autonomy and Transatlantic Strains
The current standoff reflects a sensitive period for transatlantic relations, already strained by disagreements over trade and the conflict in Ukraine. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas noted that Europeans are now better prepared to handle “unpredictable decisions” from Washington. Leaders insist that entering a war with an unclear horizon would be a “strategic error,” choosing instead to maintain a cautious distance from direct U.S. military leadership.
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