US President Donald Trump has sharply criticised NATO allies for not joining American military efforts against Iran, particularly in securing the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route.
In a post on Truth Social dated March 20, Trump expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of support from allied nations.
"Without the U.S.A., NATO IS A PAPER TIGER! They didn’t want to join the fight to stop a Nuclear Powered Iran. Now that fight is Militarily WON, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to pay, but don’t want to help open the Strait of Hormuz, a simple military maneuver that is the single reason for the high oil prices. So easy for them to do, with so little risk. COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!," he wrote.
NATO reluctance under scrutiny
Trump reiterated his criticism during remarks at the Oval Office while meeting Ireland's Prime Minister. He said NATO's hesitation to get involved in the Iran conflict reflected poorly on the alliance, reported CNBC.
The 32-member bloc, he said, is "making a very foolish mistake," adding that their response is "a great test, because we don't need them, but they should have been there".
Trump, who has long criticised NATO, again described it as unequal in terms of contributions, suggesting the US shoulders most of the burden.
Calls to secure Strait of Hormuz
The US president has urged countries dependent on oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz to take action.
He called on "the Countries of the World that receive Oil through the Hormuz Strait" to "take care of that passage". However, no NATO countries have formally committed to joining such efforts so far.
Trump also stated that despite the lack of allied support, the US military operations are continuing independently.
"Because of the fact that we have had such Military Success, we no longer 'need', or desire, the NATO Countries' assistance — WE NEVER DID!" he wrote.
Trump's remarks come amid rising oil prices linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. His comments also raised doubts about the formation of a broader international coalition to reopen the route.
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China visit timeline shifts
Separately, Trump indicated that his planned visit to China to meet President Xi Jinping may take place in "about five or six weeks", suggesting a delay from earlier expectations.
The timing comes as tensions between the US and China remain high, partly linked to the Iran conflict and ongoing trade issues.
