On March 21, Trump again demanded that China, Japan, and South Korea escort the Strait of Hormuz!
He said that the United States does not need the Strait of Hormuz, but it is actually Europe, Japan, South Korea, and China that truly need this waterway. He also made it sound very light, calling it a "simple military operation" and "relatively safe." However, he immediately added that a lot of help is needed, such as ships, and in large numbers.
He also subtly mentioned NATO, saying that NATO could help, but has not had the courage to do so until now. Finally, he added that other countries can also help, but he doesn't need them, "it will open up by itself at the time."
In fact, the core meaning of these words is just one thing: the United States no longer wants to take full responsibility for escorting the Strait of Hormuz as before. Countries and regions that rely on this waterway must pay and provide ships and effort themselves. Although it's the US military that caused the problem, you have to take responsibility for cleaning up the mess.
Dao Ge believes that Japan and South Korea are US allies in the Asia-Pacific region and are dependent on the US for security. When the US issued this statement, they will face considerable pressure and need to find a balance between cooperating with the US strategy and maintaining their own energy security. As for China, it also has important shipping interests in the Strait of Hormuz, but China has always adhered to an independent foreign policy. Regarding the US's "command-style" approach, it clearly will not simply accept it.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1860238222744643/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.