Donald Trump has launched a furious attack on NATO allies after they refused to assist the United States in the Strait of Hormuz, declaring that America no longer needs the alliance. In a post on Truth Social, the President wrote: 'We no longer "need," or desire, the NATO countries' assistance - we never did.' He accused allies of treating the alliance as a 'one-way street' and said they would do nothing for the US 'in a time of need.'
The outburst came after the United Kingdom, France, Japan and Australia all declined to help protect commercial shipping in the Strait, which remains blockaded by Iranian mines and missiles. Gas prices have surged to an average of $3.80 a gallon from $2.90 before the conflict began three weeks ago. Senator Lindsey Graham, a close Trump ally, said he had 'never heard him so angry' over Europe's unwillingness to help.
Trump singled out the UK for criticism, comparing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer unfavourably to Winston Churchill. 'Unfortunately, Keir is not Winston Churchill,' he said during a meeting with Ireland's Taoiseach. Trump claimed he had personally asked Britain for minesweepers, only to be told that consultations were needed first. Sir Keir responded: 'While taking the necessary action to defend ourselves and our allies, we will not be drawn into the wider war.'
The conflict has so far killed 13 US troops and injured more than 200 across seven countries. Israel claimed it had killed two high-ranking Iranian commanders overnight, including security chief Ali Larijani. However, US intelligence has determined that Iran's regime will likely remain in power despite relentless airstrikes. The Pentagon has already spent $5.6 billion on munitions in the first two days of the war.
Sources close to the White House warn that Trump may now be forced to put boots on the ground in Iran to salvage victory, as Iran shows no signs of letting up. 'They decide how long we're involved, and they decide if we put boots on the ground,' a source told Politico. Trump confidantes fear he risks being dragged into an open-ended conflict just as the midterm elections approach, with the escalating war threatening to drive up the cost of living for voters.
