March 16, 2026 — Washington President Donald Trump announced that “about seven” countries are in discussions to help police the Strait of Hormuz, the vital shipping chokepoint largely closed by Iran to U.S. and allied vessels as the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran enters its third week.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20% of global oil passes, has become a flashpoint in the conflict that began on February 28, 2026, with U.S. and Israeli airstrikes killing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, according to Wikipedia. Iran has vowed to maintain the closure, with several tankers attacked in the waterway last week, per WSJ coverage.
“About seven” countries are in talks, Trump said, though no commitments for warships have been made.
War Enters Third Week
Democracy Now! headlines reported the conflict stretching into its third week, with Iran’s foreign minister denying requests for a ceasefire. Israel continues strikes on Iranian targets, including security sites, as noted in CNN updates. Iranian retaliation includes cluster missile attacks on central Israel, injuring at least one person, according to ILTV.
The U.S. has called on allies, including NATO members, to contribute warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz, with Trump warning of the need for action amid threats to shipping in the area, as covered by NBC News.
Strait of Hormuz Crisis
Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted energy supplies, prompting global concerns. DW highlighted U.S. appeals for international support to reopen the passage. Trump emphasized coalition efforts in recent statements, per BBC.
Earlier incidents include a U.S. military plane crash in Iraq on March 12 and ongoing tanker attacks, exacerbating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
Background
The war erupted after surprise U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on multiple Iranian sites, escalating regional hostilities. As of March 16, strikes continue with no immediate resolution in sight, amid Iran’s denials of ceasefire overtures.