You can't create an Apple ID without a phone number. Phone numbers in the USA and other countries are tied to all sorts of PII, and most require ID to get.
@sneak Ah sorry, I thought you were facing this problem in particular, not pointing it out. It's the same with Google or bank accounts or Amazon after all.
@snow@ultem@sneak But don‘t forget, Apple stores are location based - which means you need a compatible payment option too for the chosen country. If you like to buy content.