US struggles to build willing coalition amid Hormuz tensions

The United States is struggling to piece together an international coalition to protect cargo ships travelling through the Strait of Hormuz, with allies concerned about being dragged into conflict with Iran.Tensions have risen in the Gulf since the United States decided in May 2018 to withdraw from a landmark accord to limit Iran's nuclear programme and began to reintroduce sanctions.On Sunday, Australia became the latest ally seeming to give the plan a wide berth.