Donald Trump has sharply criticised American allies, calling them “cowards” for not backing a US-led military effort against Iran to secure the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said, “Without the U.S.A., NATO is a paper tiger,” accusing allies of failing to support efforts to counter what he described as a nuclear threat from Iran. He added, “COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!”
The US President expressed frustration that while partner nations complain about rising oil prices, they have been reluctant to participate in military operations to reopen the crucial maritime route, which remains disrupted amid ongoing tensions.
Trump argued that securing the Strait of Hormuz is in the collective interest of allied nations, particularly to stabilise global energy supplies and prevent further escalation in the region.
However, in a sign of coordinated diplomacy, leaders from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Japan issued a joint statement supporting “appropriate efforts” to ensure safe passage through the strait and stabilise energy markets.
The statement, released by the office of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, also condemned recent hostilities and urged Iran to immediately halt threats, including mine-laying and missile or drone attacks targeting commercial shipping.
As tensions with Iran enter the third week, the continued disruption of the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes—has intensified pressure on global energy markets and strained diplomatic relations.
