U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivers remarks, during a presentation ceremony of the Mexican Border Defense Medal (MBDM) to service members participating in the Trump administration's Operation Ardent Vanguard, at the Pentagon in Washinton, D.C., U.S., July 27, 2026. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is encountering significant resistance from U.S. allies as he seeks international support for a Strait of Hormuz patrol coalition, per reports.
According to Politico, European officials have expressed deep frustration with the Trump administration's approach, particularly the February airstrike on Iran that occurred without consulting Congress or allied partners.
Hegseth is urging the U.K. and France to lead the naval coalition but faces skepticism from four British officials and U.S. insiders, Politico reported.
The U.K. Defense Minister Wes Streeting agreed cautiously to assist with maritime security but explicitly rejected offensive operations against Iran.
Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE) explained the problem directly: Trump is frustrated that Congress, the American people, and core allies aren't supporting the war with Iran.
Coons also noted the administration failed to build consensus before escalating, stating, "you can't be surprised when you throw a party and you don't invite anybody."
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