"The US membership in NATO is something we need to rethink. We've helped them, but they haven't helped us back. This is very bad for NATO," US President Donald Trump stated at the White House on 17/3, while hosting Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin.
Trump made the comments shortly after announcing on Truth Social that most NATO allies did not want to support the US in confronting Iran or participate in efforts to open the Strait of Hormuz, despite Washington's calls in recent days.
He expressed displeasure that while allies supported the goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, they were unwilling to join US operations. "Yes, America will remember this, because for us, it's quite shocking," he said. When asked about potential retaliatory measures against NATO, Trump stated there were no specific plans. He added, "I just think that's not good for a cooperative relationship when they say, 'what you're doing is great, but we're not going to lend a hand'."
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US President Donald Trump speaks at the White House on 17/3. Photo: AFP
Trump called the request for allies to join the operation to open the Strait of Hormuz a "loyalty test," suggesting it was a minor task for nations heavily reliant on the US security umbrella. He revealed that some countries, such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), had expressed willingness to assist, but did not specify their roles.
Washington has, in recent days, sought to form a coalition to protect the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for about 20% of the world's oil supply. Iran has severely disrupted this route with missile and suicide drone attacks, sharply increasing global energy prices.
Most leaders of US allied nations, especially European countries, refused to participate. They expressed unwillingness to be drawn into a war they did not instigate and were not consulted on. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the conflict in the Middle East was "not NATO's mission," while German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius declared the war between the US, Israel, and Iran was "not our war." French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed that Paris would not participate in operations to relieve the Strait of Hormuz, as it was not a party to the conflict and would only join vessel escort missions when the situation stabilized.
Trump criticized NATO for making a serious mistake by choosing to stay out. He also reiterated US support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, noting this decision benefited Europe more than Washington.
By Thanh Danh (CNN, BBC, AFP)
