Breaking News in the Strait of Hormuz!
Foreign media reported that today (March 19), six countries including the UK, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, and the Netherlands issued a joint statement, pledging to escort the Strait of Hormuz, stating they are ready to "contribute to the appropriate efforts to ensure the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz." The statement also said that the six countries "strongly condemned" Iran's actual blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Previously, Trump had called on China, France, the UK, Japan, and South Korea to escort the Strait of Hormuz. However, countries such as the UK, France, and Germany had all expressed refusal. Yet, within just a few days, their stance changed, revealing hidden calculations. Refusing the invitation previously was due to fear of getting involved in the war ignited by the US and Israel, and concern about a direct conflict with Iran. Now, agreeing to follow is an opportunistic move after weighing the pros and cons, fearing that the US would hold them accountable later, and wanting to maintain transatlantic ties with a show of compliance.
However, the "commitment" of the six countries is vague and leaves ample room for retreat. It contains no specific military deployment or action timeline, typical of "active statements but minimal effort." This fence-sitting attitude is the survival strategy of middle powers in a multipolar world: not daring to offend the US, yet unwilling to pay for Trump's recklessness.
Europe's energy security depends on the Gulf shipping lanes, while Japan's energy lifeline hangs on the Strait of Hormuz. Committing to escorting is essentially self-interest. However, following the US step by step, can it bring safety? History has repeatedly proven that the cost of maintaining hegemony will ultimately be shared by vassals. Today's escort commitment may become tomorrow's quagmire chains.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1860105411712064/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.