NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte informed some European capitals that U. S. President Donald Trump is seeking specific commitments within days for assistance in securing the Strait of Hormuz, according to two European diplomats. Rutte met Trump in Washington to discuss tensions related to the Iran war. One diplomat emphasized frustration in Washington, noting that allies were not consulted before or after the war began. NATO itself will not be involved in the conflict, but allies are interested in finding long-term solutions regarding Hormuz, especially as negotiations with Iran continue.
Trump has criticized NATO as ineffective and threatened to withdraw from the alliance, arguing that European allies have benefitted from U. S. security while not adequately supporting the U. S.-Israeli strikes on Iran. Despite a two-week ceasefire proposed by Trump, tensions remain high. After his meeting with Rutte, Trump posted on Truth Social, claiming NATO would not support the U. S. if needed. Rutte acknowledged Trump’s disappointment with NATO allies during a CNN interview, agreeing with some of his concerns.
Meanwhile, Britain is leading around 40 nations in efforts to create military and diplomatic strategies to secure Hormuz. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that around 15 countries aim to resume traffic through the strait, but full reopening hinges on a solid U. S.-Iran agreement. Italy and Britain rejected Iran’s demand for tolls on strait crossing. A European diplomat indicated that while they recognize U. S. urgency, the focus should be on establishing the right conditions rather than solely appeasing the U. S.
With information from Reuters
