Kathmandu. US President Donald Trump on Sunday asked seven countries to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz to protect their waterways.

But so far, no country has made explicit commitments. The price of oil has increased drastically due to the war. “I’m asking these countries to defend their territory,” Trump said. Because it’s their own territory. ”

Iran’s response

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said some countries had contacted their ships for safe passage. But the decision rests entirely with the Iranian military. Iran has kept ships from all countries except the United States and its allies open to use the strait. “We have no reason to negotiate with the United States,” he said. The war began with the February 28 attacks of Israel and the United States. ”

Response from other countries

In the event of war, other countries have reacted. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed with Trump the importance of reopening the Strait. China has said that all parties are responsible for ensuring stable and disrupted energy supplies. South Korea is studying the situation carefully, while France is preparing a possible international security mission with other European and Asian countries.

Missile and drone attacks

The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Bahrain have reported Iranian missile or drone strikes. Dubai International Airport was temporarily closed, where a fuel tank was set on fire by a drone. Iran said on Friday that the US strikes targeted the island of Kharg, where the main oil terminal is located. Iran has threatened to respond swiftly if its oil and energy infrastructure are attacked.

Human Impact of War

The war has had serious human impacts across the region. At least dozens of civilians have been killed in Iran’s missile attack. More than 1,300 people have died in Iran, including 233 women and 202 children. In Israel, 12 people have been killed and more injured. In Lebanon, more than 820 people have died and nearly 80,000 people have been displaced. Iranian missiles have targeted several Israeli cities and oil facilities, as well as reports of the use of cluster bombs.

Oil Markets & Supplies

The International Energy Agency (IEA) is planning to increase supply to the market through emergency oil reserves. Asian countries are preparing to release stockpiles immediately, while Europe and the US are due to release stockpiles by the end of March. Trump said that the price of oil will fall soon after the war is over.