Trump hints at retaliation after NATO refuses Strait of Hormuz support

Wed, March 18, 2026 - 04:30

2 min

Trump hints at retaliation after NATO refuses Strait of Hormuz support

Donald Trump, President of the US (photo: Getty Images)

US President Donald Trump called NATO allies’ refusal to help unblock the Strait of Hormuz a very foolish mistake, according to Reuters.

However, the American leader gave no hints that he would retaliate against Alliance allies for refusing to participate in a war against Iran.

He also stated that NATO countries support the joint US-Israeli operation, even if they did not want to intervene directly.

"I think NATO is making a very foolish mistake. Everyone agrees with us, but they don't want to help. And we, you know, we as the United States have to remember that because we think it's pretty shocking," the White House chief said.

Regarding whether he would retaliate against NATO allies for their restraint, Trump said that at the moment, he does not intend to do anything of the sort.

Despite previous threats to pull the US out of the Alliance, the American leader did not raise this issue during Tuesday’s meeting.

Trump asks allies for help

The US president has called on countries around the world to help patrol the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world’s oil passes. This statement came after Iran blocked the maritime route for ships, surrounding the strait with drones and missiles.

However, NATO allies refused to intervene in the Middle East conflict. For example, the UK, which also declined to help the US unblock the Strait of Hormuz, does not plan to send warships. At most, London is willing to assist with drones to patrol the Strait.

Trump also criticized the allies’ refusal to join the US operation against Iran, saying that NATO membership is certainly something we need to think about.

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