Trump Demands NATO Allies Deploy Warships to Secure Strait of Hormuz

President Trump issued a stark ultimatum to NATO allies, demanding they commit warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz within days.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte briefed European capitals, with diplomats saying Trump expects concrete commitments.

Al-Jazeera Net

Trump tweeted that NATO was not there when we needed them, and they won't be there if we need them again.

The ultimatum was described as a very frank, very open discussion between Trump and Rutte.

Spanish Foreign Minister Albares said the Strait of Hormuz falls outside NATO's remit.

The demand deepened divisions within NATO, with major European allies expressing reluctance to send naval forces.

German Chancellor Merz said Germany could help only after a ceasefire and with an international mandate.

Anadolu Ajansı

Spain's Albares said the Middle East is not within NATO's sphere of action.

The UK is leading a coalition of about 40 countries to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

French President Macron said about 15 countries are planning to facilitate the resumption of shipping.

The White House is considering withdrawing US troops from NATO member countries deemed unhelpful.

Trump has repeatedly criticized NATO as a paper tiger.

Republican Senator Mitch McConnell urged Trump to maintain clarity and consistency.

The fracturing alliance will delight Vladimir Putin.

The coming days could prove decisive for the unity of the Western alliance.