WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump sharply criticized NATO allies on Friday, accusing them of “cowardice” for not contributing more to what he described as the US-Israel effort to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing tensions with Iran. The outburst, delivered via his Truth Social platform, underscores the increasingly fraught geopolitical landscape and the strain on transatlantic relations as the conflict in the region continues to escalate.
The core of Trump’s complaint centers on the vital shipping lane, which Iran has effectively blocked, disrupting global energy markets. He alleges that while European nations express concern over rising oil prices – a direct consequence of the disruption – they are unwilling to actively participate in a military effort to reopen the Strait. “Now that fight is militarily WON, with incredibly little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to pay, but don’t desire to help open the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump wrote. This claim of a “militarily WON” fight requires careful consideration, as the situation remains fluid and contested.
The US and Israel began strikes against Iranian-backed groups and Iranian facilities in late February, following attacks on shipping and US personnel in the region. The conflict, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions, according to initial reports, has significantly impacted global trade and energy security. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, is a critical chokepoint for global oil supplies, with roughly 20% of the world’s oil passing through it daily, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
NATO is a waste of money and time. They are “COWARDS” and we will REMEMBER! They complain about high oil prices but don’t want to help open the Strait of Hormuz, a simple military maneuver. So effortless for them, so little risk! The US is doing it alone, as always.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 22, 2026
Trump’s criticism comes as NATO announced adjustments to its mission in Iraq. Alliance spokesperson Allison Hart confirmed the shift in a statement to AFP, stating, “We can confirm that we are adjusting our posture in the context of NATO Mission Iraq.” This adjustment followed reports that the non-combat force had been temporarily withdrawn due to the escalating conflict with Iran. U.S. Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich, NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, further confirmed the relocation of all NATO personnel from Iraq to Europe, thanking the Republic of Iraq and allied nations for their assistance in the safe relocation.
European Response and Concerns Over Energy Markets
The response from European leaders has been markedly different. French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking after a two-day European Union summit in Brussels, emphasized the importance of defending international law and prioritizing de-escalation. “I have not heard anyone here express a willingness to enter this conflict – quite the opposite,” Macron stated, signaling a clear divergence in approach from the US position.
The EU summit was largely dominated by the fallout from the war on Iran, particularly its impact on energy markets. Step Vaessen, reporting from Brussels for Al Jazeera, noted that the EU has yet to reach a consensus on coordinated measures to address the crisis. “This comes amid the announcement by the European Central Bank that it will cut growth forecasts and has raised inflation predictions in the coming months,” Vaessen reported. “So what we can expect, especially here in the European Union, is very high energy costs.”
Discussions within the EU focused on reforming energy trading systems, but ultimately failed to yield a unified response. The lack of consensus highlights the complex geopolitical considerations and differing national interests at play within the bloc. The European Central Bank’s revised economic forecasts – anticipating slower growth and higher inflation – underscore the tangible economic consequences of the ongoing conflict and the disruption to energy supplies.
The Question of Consultation and the Future of the Strait
A significant point of contention, as highlighted by Trump, is that major US allies were not consulted prior to the initiation of military action against Iran. This lack of consultation has fueled resentment among some European nations and raised questions about the US approach to multilateralism. The decision to proceed without allied support has further strained relationships and complicated efforts to forge a unified response to the crisis.
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains precarious. Iran has reportedly begun implementing a vetting system for vessels transiting the waterway, further restricting access and increasing tensions. While the US asserts that the military phase of the conflict is largely complete, the long-term implications for regional stability and global energy markets remain uncertain. The ongoing disruption to shipping lanes continues to drive up oil prices, impacting economies worldwide.
Looking ahead, the focus will likely shift to diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict and secure the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The next key development to watch is the outcome of upcoming negotiations, mediated by Oman, between US and Iranian representatives scheduled for April 5th, according to sources within the State Department. The success of these talks will be crucial in determining whether a lasting resolution can be reached and whether the Strait of Hormuz can be reopened to international shipping.
This is a developing story. We encourage readers to share their perspectives and engage in constructive dialogue in the comments section below.
