Greece, Germany reject military role as Iran signals prolonged war with Israel, U.S.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Several European countries have stepped back from any direct military role in the deepening Middle East crisis, as Iran indicated it is ready for a prolonged confrontation with Israel and the United States.

The German government made it clear that it will not join any military effort to secure the Strait of Hormuz while the conflict persists. A government spokesperson stressed that the ongoing war involving Iran is not linked to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

“As long as this war continues, there will be no participation, not even in any effort to keep the Strait of Hormuz open by military means,” the spokesperson said as quoted by Al Jazeera.

Greece has taken a similar position. Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis stated that Athens will not be involved in any military operation in the strategic waterway despite rising regional tensions.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping route. A large share of the world’s oil supply passes through it. Concerns have grown over possible disruptions as the conflict intensifies.

In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain would avoid being pulled into a wider regional conflict. His remarks followed a warning by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who said NATO’s future could be affected if allied countries fail to offer military support.

Starmer said the UK is focused on safeguarding its citizens in the Middle East. He added that Britain will also take steps to protect its national interests and support its allies.

“We will not allow ourselves to be drawn into a broader conflict,” he said.

He also noted that the UK would continue to pursue diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring stability in the region.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran is prepared to sustain the confrontation for as long as necessary. He spoke during a weekly briefing at the foreign ministry.

“I think by now they have learned a good lesson and understood what kind of nation they are dealing with, one that does not hesitate to defend itself and is ready to continue the war wherever it may lead,” he said.

Araghchi added that the Strait of Hormuz is effectively restricted for countries Iran considers hostile.

“From our perspective, the strait is open, but it is closed to our enemies — those who carried out this aggression against us and their allies,” he said.

He also accused the United States and Israel of triggering the crisis by demanding Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” a condition Tehran has rejected.

The latest developments point to growing divisions among global powers. While some European nations are avoiding deeper involvement, Iran has maintained that it is ready to press on with the confrontation if the situation continues.