The Algeciras display forced Britain to choose between two dangers rather than offering a cost-free diplomatic triumph. A visible British commitment could encourage renewed German interest in naval expansion and further navy laws. Refusing to support France, however, could allow the alliance structure on which British strategy increasingly depended to collapse. Deterrence involved accepting calculated consequences as well as avoiding immediate war.
Notable Point · 1:47:55-1:49:02
The strategic cost of Britain's Tangier fleet display
Backing France with an unmistakable fleet demonstration risked intensifying German naval policy, but withholding support risked losing the Entente and leaving Britain strategically isolated.