Why Europe Isn't Backing US in Iran Conflict: A Strategic Calculation

• Europe's reluctance stems from a mix of how the war started, its handling, and potential consequences.
• US and Israel initiated strikes without consulting European allies, leading to a lack of shared strategy.
• NATO's Article 5, a defensive arrangement, does not apply to the current conflict, say European officials.
• Doubts exist whether increased military involvement would effectively resolve the complex situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
• Europe considers the economic impact of rising oil prices as a potential factor to influence US decision-making and avoid wider regional fallout, including migration.