NATO a “Paper Tiger” Without U.S., Says Trump

In a post on Truth Social, Trump argued that NATO members refused to join what he described as a fight against a “nuclear-powered Iran.” He claimed the conflict had already been “militarily won” with minimal risk to allies, yet they remained reluctant to participate.

The war, which began on February 28 with U.S.-Israeli strikes, has killed thousands and displaced millions, while also disrupting global markets. Trump specifically pointed to the Strait of Hormuz, blaming NATO’s inaction for soaring oil prices. He described securing the Strait of Hormuz as “a simple military manoeuvre” that allies could have undertaken with little danger.

“Now that the 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 wrote. “Cowards, and we will remember.”

Despite Trump’s criticism, several nations—including Germany, Britain, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, and Canada—issued a joint statement pledging to join “appropriate efforts” to ensure safe passage through the Strait. However, leaders such as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron stressed that their involvement would depend on an end to active combat. Macron reiterated that France would not take part in operations to open the Strait, emphasising de-escalation and adherence to international law.

Trump’s remarks underscore growing tensions between Washington and its allies, raising questions about NATO’s role in conflicts beyond Europe.