Donald Trump Slams NATO Over Strait of Hormuz: Says NATO Lacks Courage To Help US | Iran | N18G

CNBC-TV18
CNBC-TV18Mar 21, 2026

Why It Matters

Trump’s criticism of NATO could reshape alliance dynamics and affect the security of the Strait of Hormuz, with direct consequences for global energy markets.

Key Takeaways

  • Trump accuses NATO of lacking courage to secure Strait.
  • He claims US has already neutralized Iran’s naval capabilities.
  • Opening the Strait, he says, is a simple military maneuver.
  • Trump urges China, Japan, South Korea to contribute shipping assets.
  • Iran’s execution of protesters used to justify tougher US response.

Summary

In a recent interview, former President Donald Trump blasted NATO, accusing the alliance of “lacking courage” to assist the United States in reopening the Strait of Hormuz after what he described as a decisive military victory over Iran.

Trump asserted that U.S. forces have “knocked out” Iran’s navy, air force, anti‑aircraft systems and radar, rendering the Iranian military “finished.” He framed the reopening of the Strait as a “simple, relatively safe military maneuver” that merely requires additional ships and volume, which he says NATO has failed to provide. He also noted that China and Japan derive 90‑95% of their energy from the waterway and should therefore help.

Notable remarks included, “We’ve knocked out their navy, their air force… they’re finished,” and “NATO could help us, but they so far haven’t had the courage to do so.” Trump also referenced Iran’s execution of three protesters as evidence of the regime’s brutality and a justification for stronger U.S. action.

The comments signal a potential shift toward unilateral U.S. pressure on Iran and could strain transatlantic ties, while raising the specter of disruptions to global oil shipments if diplomatic solutions stall.

Original Description

United States President Donald Trump has described the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz as a 'simple military maneuver' while calling on international partners to provide greater assistance in securing the vital waterway. Addressing the ongoing maritime tensions, Trump stated that while the operation is relatively safe, it requires a significant volume of ships and international cooperation that has yet to fully materialise. He specifically criticised NATO, claiming the alliance has lacked the courage to assist the United States in this effort despite being a major beneficiary of the energy corridor. Trump highlighted the heavy reliance of Asian economies on the Strait of Hormuz, noting that China and Japan derive 90% and 95% of their energy respectively from the region. He suggested it would be appropriate for these nations to get involved in securing the passage. Despite the current blockade, Trump maintained that the United States has effectively defeated the enemy forces responsible for the disruption.
#donaldtrump #nato #straitofhormuz #iran #iranwar #usiranconflict #middleeastcrisis #breakingnews #worldnews #geopolitics #oilcrisis #westasia #usnavy #trumpnews #natonews #globaleconomy #oilsupply #cnbctv18
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