US President Donald Trump has sharply criticized NATO allies, accusing them of failing to fully support the United States in its ongoing confrontation with Iran.
The remarks come weeks after the United States, alongside Israel, launched initial strikes on February 28, 2026, which reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, along with several senior military officials.
Tensions Over Strait of Hormuz
As the conflict enters its third week, Trump has urged European nations to deploy naval forces to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes.
However, several European leaders have rejected the request, arguing they were not consulted before the war began and should not be expected to participate in it.
Trump did not hold back in his response, saying:
“Without the United States, NATO is like a paper structure.”
He further accused allied nations of benefiting from US military efforts while refusing to share the burden, particularly in ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Frustration Over Rising Oil Prices
The US president also criticized European countries for complaining about rising energy prices while declining to contribute militarily.
“We’ve essentially won the war militarily. It affected them very little, yet they complain about high prices and don’t want to help reopen the Strait,” Trump said.
He described the required military action as minimal and low-risk, adding that their refusal would not be forgotten:
“They are cowards, and we will remember that.”
Allies Respond
Despite Trump’s remarks, several countries—including France, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, Netherlands, Japan, and Canada issued a joint statement on March 19, 2026, indicating they are working on alternative measures to help secure the vital maritime route.
The disagreement highlights growing divisions within NATO over the Iran conflict, raising questions about unity within the alliance as geopolitical tensions continue to escalate.