Middle East crisis live: Trump increases pressure on allies over strait of Hormuz; flights suspended at Dubai airport

Amidst a Middle East crisis, Iran's foreign minister accuses Israel of "ecocide" due to strikes on Tehran fuel depots, citing health and environmental consequences. Donald Trump is pressuring allies to join a coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil transit route effectively closed due to the conflict. Japan and Australia have declined to send warships, while the UK considers deploying minesweeping drones. Trump aims to unveil the coalition list this week, but responses from countries like the UK, Japan, and Australia have been muted. The Strait's closure is causing global energy supply concerns.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump called for nations including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK to send naval ships to the Strait of Hormuz to ensure its safety and openness amidst rising oil prices due to the US and Israel's war on Iran. This call comes as Iran's military effectively blocks the strait in retaliation for US and Israeli strikes. While the US Secretary of Energy claimed to be in dialogue with some countries, no immediate commitments have been made. China stated its responsibility to ensure stable energy supply and willingness to communicate for de-escalation. Iran claims the strait is open to all except the US and its allies, with the decision for safe passage of other vessels left to its military.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated there are "no guarantees" oil prices will decrease in the near future. His statement is based on the continued instability in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil tankers. Iran's recent actions, including firing projectiles and deploying mines, have made the Strait unsafe for passage. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for oil shipments, and disruptions there can significantly impact global oil prices. Wright's comments highlight the potential for continued high oil prices due to geopolitical tensions in the region.