U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply criticized the NATO alliance, describing it as a “paper tiger” without American leadership, as tensions deepen over efforts to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
In a strongly worded post on his Truth Social platform on Friday, Trump accused NATO allies of refusing to support U.S. efforts to secure the waterway, which has been largely closed to commercial traffic following escalating hostilities in the Middle East.
“They didn’t want to join the fight to stop a nuclear powered Iran. Now that fight is militarily won, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to pay, but don’t want to help open the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump said.
He went further, calling the operation to reopen the strait “a simple military maneuver” and criticizing allies for what he described as a lack of courage. “So easy for them to do, with so little risk. Cowards, and we will remember!” he added, signaling growing frustration within Washington over burden-sharing among Western allies.
Trump’s remarks highlight a widening rift within NATO as member states weigh the risks of deeper involvement in a conflict that has already destabilized the Middle East and disrupted global energy markets. Several European nations have instead emphasized diplomatic and multilateral approaches to resolving the crisis, resisting calls for direct military participation.
The dispute comes amid heightened regional tensions following a joint offensive launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28. The campaign has reportedly resulted in approximately 1,300 deaths, including senior figures such as Ali Khamenei, and has triggered a cycle of retaliation across the region.
Iran has responded with drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, as well as countries including Jordan, Iraq, and several Gulf states hosting U.S. military assets. In a move with far-reaching global consequences, Tehran has effectively restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes.
The strait typically handles around 20 million barrels of oil per day and accounts for roughly 20 percent of global liquefied natural gas trade. Its disruption has sent shockwaves through international markets, contributing to a sharp rise in energy prices.
According to market data, the price of Brent crude oil surged to approximately $108.21 per barrel in early trading, representing an increase of about 50 percent since the outbreak of hostilities. The spike has intensified economic pressures on countries heavily dependent on energy imports, including many NATO members.
Trump’s comments underscore the broader geopolitical tensions surrounding the conflict, as allies struggle to balance economic concerns with the risks of military escalation. While the United States has pushed for more direct action to secure maritime routes, several European governments have signaled caution, advocating for a United Nations-backed framework and a diplomatic resolution.
Analysts say the disagreement could have long-term implications for NATO cohesion, particularly if divisions persist over how to respond to emerging global security threats. The alliance, long seen as a cornerstone of Western defense cooperation, now faces renewed scrutiny over burden-sharing and strategic priorities.
As the crisis continues, the debate over reopening the Strait of Hormuz remains central to both global energy security and the evolving dynamics within NATO. Trump’s remarks reflect mounting pressure on allies to take a more active role, even as concerns about escalation and regional instability continue to shape their response.
