US President Donald Trump accused NATO countries of being "cowards" on his Truth Social platform for refusing to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, warning that the US "will remember" their refusal. This criticism comes as allies complain about high oil prices resulting from the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Key points
- Trump stated that without the US, NATO is a "paper tiger" and criticized allies for complaining about oil prices after avoiding the battle against a nuclear-armed Iran.
- Six countries, including France, Germany, and Italy, declared willingness to contribute to securing navigation, but only after hostilities cease.
- French President Emmanuel Macron suggested a future mission under a UN framework, emphasizing France would not participate in opening the Strait by force amid ongoing war operations.
- The near-paralysis of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of global oil production passes, has caused a sharp rise in hydrocarbon prices.
- The UK indicated it is working on a plan with partners to restore maritime traffic in the area.
Why it matters
The strong rebuke from the US President highlights significant friction within NATO regarding shared security responsibilities, particularly concerning critical global energy chokepoints amidst regional conflict.