Trump Says NATO’s Refusal to Help in Iran Is a “Very Foolish Mistake”
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that the United States has been told most of its NATO allies do not want to get involved in Washington’s military operation in Iran, calling their stance a “very foolish mistake.” Trump made the remarks while taking questions from reporters in the Oval Office during the St. Patrick’s Day visit of Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin.
Despite the sharp criticism, Trump gave no indication he intends to punish NATO allies for holding back. Asked whether he would retaliate, Trump said he had “nothing currently in mind.” He added that NATO countries are broadly supportive of the joint U.S.-Israeli campaign—now entering its third week—even if they are unwilling to participate directly.
“I think NATO is making a very foolish mistake,” Trump said. “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,” he added.
Trump also reiterated calls for countries to help police the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s oil is transported. He argued Iran responded to U.S.-Israeli strikes by using drones, missiles, and mines to effectively close the channel to tanker traffic. However, several U.S. allies said on Monday they had no immediate plans to send ships to help unblock the strait—effectively rebuffing Trump’s request for military support.
Earlier Tuesday, Trump wrote on Truth Social that because of U.S. military success, Washington no longer “needs” or desires NATO assistance—adding, “WE NEVER DID!” He singled out Japan, Australia, and South Korea in that message.
Source : Newsmaker.id
