Donald Trump has said the United States does not need Nato after being rebuffed by several member countries over his appeal for a multinational naval force to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, following Iranian attacks on cargo vessels. Speaking from the Oval Office, the US president described the rejection as a 'very foolish mistake', adding that everyone agreed with the US but would not help.
Trump singled out British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, expressing disappointment and claiming the relationship with the UK had been good before Starmer took office. Starmer had said the UK would take necessary action to defend itself and its allies but would not be drawn into a wider war. Government sources indicated no plan for UK ships in the strait.
The US president also criticised Japan, Australia and South Korea for refusing to send warships. In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: 'Because of the fact that we have had such Military Success, we no longer “need,” or desire, the Nato Countries’ assistance _ WE NEVER DID!' The remarks come as Iran’s actions have sent oil prices above $100 per barrel, threatening global inflation.
Trump responded to reports about potential ground operations by American or Israeli forces by saying he was not afraid of a Vietnam-style quagmire. Meanwhile, Reuters reported that the White House was encouraging the Syrian regime to help disarm Hezbollah in eastern Lebanon, a move that could pit former Sunni Salafists against Shia forces.
Iran launched fresh attacks across the Gulf on Tuesday, with Qatar intercepting a missile, the UAE closing airspace temporarily, and strikes near the US embassy in Baghdad. Explosions were reported across Iran, including in Tehran and Isfahan. Iraq’s oil minister said Baghdad had reached an understanding, though details were not provided.
