Trump slams NATO allies as ‘cowards’ over refusal to join Iran war

US President Donald Trump has sharply criticised NATO allies for refusing to join the ongoing US-led military campaign against Iran, calling them “cowards” and expressing frustration over the alliance’s lack of support.

The remarks come amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, where the US and Israel have been engaged in military operations against Iran since late February. The conflict has disrupted global energy supplies and heightened geopolitical instability.

Trump’s criticism was largely directed at NATO members who declined to participate in efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route affected by the conflict. He warned that the US would “remember” the lack of support from its allies during the crisis.

Several key allies, including European nations, have refrained from direct military involvement, instead calling for de-escalation and adherence to international law. While some countries expressed willingness to support maritime security, they linked any assistance to a cessation of hostilities rather than active participation in the war.

The situation has exposed divisions within NATO, with differences emerging over the alliance’s role in the conflict. Trump has repeatedly criticised the bloc, even describing it as ineffective without US leadership, further straining relations between Washington and its allies.

Despite the lack of allied backing, Trump has indicated that US military operations will continue, asserting that Washington is capable of pursuing its objectives independently.

The ongoing conflict has already had significant global repercussions, including rising oil prices, regional instability, and large-scale displacement, with fears that further escalation could widen the war.