President Donald Trump has publicly declared NATO "useless," stating he instructed the alliance to "stay away" after tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz subsided and Iran announced the waterway was fully open to commercial vessels. Trump's pronouncements followed a period of heightened conflict in the region, during which Iran had previously restricted passage. The timing of NATO's offer of assistance, which Trump claims arrived only after the "situation was over," has fueled his sharp critique.
The core of Trump's argument centers on NATO's perceived lack of timely support during the crisis, contrasting it with their post-resolution offer of help. He articulated this by stating, "Now that the Hormuz Strait situation is over, I received a call from NATO asking if we would need some help." This sentiment was echoed across several platforms, including his Truth Social account.
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European nations, however, are moving forward with their own plans. French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and leaders from the UK and Italy have committed to accelerating a multinational mission to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. This initiative aims to secure the vital shipping lane, which handles a significant portion of global oil and LNG traffic. Details of this mission are expected to be shared at an upcoming military planning conference in London.
Trump's criticism of NATO is not new. He has consistently accused member states of insufficient defense spending and over-reliance on U.S. military capabilities. This latest spat comes as the U.S. blockade of Iran's oil ports, initiated by Trump, is set to remain in effect despite the reopening of the Strait. Trump has also previously singled out specific leaders, such as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, for their stances on the conflict.
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The U.S. also continues its military actions, with CENTCOM releasing footage of attacks on Iranian targets. Despite these operations, Trump has indicated that U.S. and Iranian teams are expected to meet soon, with a potential final agreement anticipated in the coming days. Meanwhile, some Republicans have argued that the Strait was open prior to Trump initiating military action. Notably, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has signaled potential German participation in mine-clearing operations in the Strait once hostilities cease.
