U.S. President Donald Trump has been ramping up pressure on nations to participate in a multinational effort to defend the strategic Hormuz Strait, revealing that he has been in contact with seven countries regarding this coalition. He cautioned, 'We will remember who helped us' and hinted at the potential postponement of a U.S.-China summit if China does not cooperate in lifting sanctions. This assertion particularly targets China, a major importer of oil through the Strait, questioning why the U.S. should secure stability in the region for them.

On September 15, while traveling on Air Force One to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, Trump confirmed that the U.S. and its allies are progressing towards forming this coalition. He mentioned an encouraging response from several nations involved in the discussions but did not disclose their identities, acknowledging some hesitance from the countries he has contacted. Reports suggest an announcement regarding the coalition could come as early as this week, with multiple U.S. officials indicating that agreements have already been reached with several nations.

Trump's pressure on China is particularly notable as it comes ahead of a scheduled summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the end of the month. He expressed a desire to ascertain whether China will participate in stabilizing the Hormuz Strait before committing to the meeting. This situation highlights the broader implications of international alliances and the shifting dynamics of U.S.-China relations, particularly given the strategic importance of the Hormuz Strait for global oil supplies.