Washington (NNI) – US President Donald Trump has expressed strong frustration with global allies for what he described as a lack of support in securing the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump criticised several partner nations, saying the United States has spent billions of dollars on the defence of the NATO alliance, yet those same countries are now reluctant to support Washington during escalating tensions in the Gulf region. He specifically voiced disappointment with Keir Starmer, stating that Britain’s response came too late.
According to Trump, the UK only announced the deployment of warships after key developments had already unfolded. He remarked that such measures were no longer necessary, claiming the situation had already shifted significantly. His comments reflect growing impatience within the US administration over what it sees as delayed or insufficient cooperation from allies.
The US President also revealed that he had planned an official visit to China, but domestic developments forced him to postpone the trip for at least a month. Earlier, during a press conference, Trump reiterated his long-standing complaint that the US has protected allied nations for decades, yet those countries are hesitant to stand alongside America in times of conflict.
Trump further named countries such as Japan and South Korea, urging them to take a more active role in ensuring stability in the Strait of Hormuz. He stressed that nations heavily dependent on oil shipments through the passage should contribute more to safeguarding it.
Highlighting recent military developments, Trump claimed that mine-laying vessels operating in the Strait of Hormuz had been destroyed, and that Iran’s naval and air defence systems had been severely weakened. He went further to assert that the United States had effectively dismantled Iran’s ruling structure, although these claims have not been independently verified.
In a controversial statement, Trump also questioned whether Iran’s new supreme leadership was even functional, suggesting a lack of authority capable of entering negotiations. His remarks have added further uncertainty to an already volatile situation.
When asked whether the ongoing conflict could end within the week, Trump remained cautious. He stated that while he hopes for a swift resolution, it is too early to make definitive predictions, though he believes the war may conclude soon.
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains critical, as it is one of the world’s most important النفط shipping routes, and any prolonged instability could have far-reaching global economic consequences.