WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump voiced frustration over the lack of international support in securing the Strait of Hormuz, while also criticizing NATO allies during remarks at the Oval Office.
Speaking to the media, Trump said the United States had spent billions of dollars supporting NATO, but claimed the alliance failed to stand by Washington when needed. “We were there for NATO, but when we needed them, they were not there for us,” he said.
He also expressed disappointment with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, stating that Britain offered military assistance only after key operations had already concluded.
Trump claimed that US forces had neutralized Iran’s regime capabilities, including destroying boats allegedly laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz and dismantling much of Iran’s naval and air defenses. He urged countries that rely on oil shipments through the strait to step forward and contribute to maintaining its security.
Referring to Iran, Trump said there was no credible leadership available for negotiations and even suggested that Iran’s new supreme leadership might not be intact. He further alleged that previous Iranian leadership had been involved in deceptive actions against the American public.
The US president stressed that “violent actors” should not possess nuclear weapons, warning that Iran would use such capabilities if it had them. He accused Tehran of launching missile attacks on neighboring countries and seeking dominance in the Middle East after causing widespread destruction.
When asked whether the ongoing conflict would end this week, Trump said it was too early to say but expressed hope that it would conclude soon.
Trump also revealed plans to visit China, though the trip may be postponed by a month due to current developments. He reiterated calls for China, Japan, and other nations to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, noting that a significant portion of their oil supplies passes through the vital route.
