German Minister blames Trump for Strait of Hormuz closure

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has blamed US President Donald Trump for the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, calling for the vital waterway to be reopened in comments that highlight growing European frustration with Washington’s handling of the crisis.

“Ultimately, the cork in the bottleneck of the Strait of Hormuz was pushed in by Donald Trump, not by us, but we have an interest in getting it out again,” Pistorius said in an interview with broadcaster ARD. His blunt remarks reflect mounting concern in Europe over the disruption to global energy supplies caused by the standoff.

The Strait of Hormuz, a key conduit for oil and gas shipments, was effectively blockaded during the hostilities that began on February 28 with US-Israeli attacks on Iran. Tehran had agreed to reopen it under a preliminary accord signed by Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and shipping traffic had begun to recover. However, Iran on Saturday announced it was once again closing the strait, citing alleged ceasefire violations by the United States and Israel.

Pistorius emphasized that Europe has a direct stake in the safe passage of ships through the strait. “The opening of the Strait of Hormuz, or rather safe passage through it, is in Europe’s interest, in the interest of our energy supply and our economic recovery,” he stated. Germany, Europe’s largest economy, relies heavily on energy imports, and any sustained disruption to shipping through the strait would have severe consequences for its industrial base and economic growth.

The Defence Minister added that any agreement to reopen the strait would need the support of Iran and Oman, reflecting the complex diplomatic dynamics at play. Oman has historically served as a mediator between Tehran and Washington, and its role will be critical in any resolution.

Pistorius’s comments also underscore the transatlantic tensions that have emerged since the US-Iran deal was signed. While European nations have generally welcomed the diplomatic breakthrough, they have grown increasingly anxious about the fragility of the ceasefire and the unpredictability of Trump’s approach.

Iran’s decision to close the strait came just days after the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, and despite US assurances that ships continue to pass through. The situation remains precarious, with the threat of disruption to global energy supplies once again hanging over the world economy. For now, Europe is watching closely and waiting for the “cork” to be removed.