Iran authorized Iraqi tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

NATO is considering options to support allies in ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz without involving the United States, according to reports from Croatian public broadcaster HRT. The move comes amid heightened tensions with Iran, which has warned of a devastating response to new U.S. sanctions. Meanwhile, the number of ships passing through the strategic waterway has dropped significantly, raising concerns over regional stability. The situation escalated following President Donald Trump’s declaration last week that the Strait of Hormuz is now an “American territory,” a statement that drew sharp criticism from both Iranian officials and international observers. In response, Iran issued a veiled threat of a severe retaliation against the United States, citing its ongoing economic pressures. The U.S. Treasury Department announced plans to impose some of the strictest sanctions in history on Iran, targeting key sectors of its economy and financial institutions. Freedom of navigation operations have become increasingly difficult in recent weeks, with only seven vessels passing through the strait on Thursday alone. This represents a dramatic decline compared to previous months, when hundreds of commercial and military ships routinely transited the narrow passage. Analysts suggest that the reduced traffic could be attributed to a combination of factors, including increased Iranian naval activity, uncertainty surrounding U.S. policy, and growing geopolitical instability in the region. The NATO-led discussions on potential measures to safeguard maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz are part of broader efforts to maintain open sea lanes critical to global trade. However, the alliance has made it clear that it will not involve the United States directly in any military action. Instead, the focus appears to be on diplomatic and logistical support, such as intelligence sharing and coordination with regional partners. This approach reflects a delicate balancing act, aiming to avoid further escalation while ensuring the continued flow of goods and resources through one of the world's busiest shipping corridors. In addition to the sanctions, the U.S. has been conducting joint exercises with Gulf Cooperation Council nations, reinforcing alliances and signaling a commitment to regional security. These drills include anti-piracy operations and missile defense capabilities, all aimed at deterring potential threats to maritime commerce. Despite these efforts, the situation remains volatile, with both sides engaged in a complex game of brinkmanship. Regional leaders and international experts have expressed concern over the potential for conflict, warning that miscalculations could lead to unintended consequences. While NATO’s stance avoids direct confrontation, the underlying tensions remain high. As the situation develops, the international community will be watching closely for any signs of de-escalation or renewed hostilities. For now, the Strait of Hormuz continues to serve as a symbol of the fragile balance between power and diplomacy in the Middle East.