President Donald Trump on Friday sharply criticized NATO allies for what he termed a lack of support in addressing the ongoing disruption to global shipping caused by the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz, even as the United Kingdom announced it would allow the United States to utilize its bases for operations targeting Iran. The announcement from Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office followed weeks of escalating tensions and US-Israeli military action in the region, which began on February 28.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump accused NATO countries of “cowardice” and vowed to “remember” their reluctance to join the US in confronting Iran. He further contended that despite complaining about rising oil prices – a direct consequence of the constricted shipping lane – these same nations were unwilling to undertake what he described as a “simple military maneuver” to secure the Strait of Hormuz. “Now that fight is militarily WON, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to pay, but don’t want to help open the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump wrote.
The UK’s decision to permit US access to its bases, according to the Prime Minister’s statement, is specifically intended for “collective self-defence of the region” and encompasses “US defensive operations to degrade the missile sites and capabilities being used to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz.” This represents a significant shift in the UK’s posture, following earlier calls for de-escalation.
Meanwhile, NATO announced it was “adjusting” its mission in Iraq, with personnel temporarily withdrawn due to the escalating conflict. NATO spokesperson Allison Hart confirmed the relocation, stating the alliance was adjusting its posture “in the context of NATO Mission Iraq.” US Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich, NATO’s supreme allied commander Europe, confirmed all personnel had been moved to Europe, thanking Iraq and other allies for their assistance in the safe relocation.
The European Union, during a two-day summit in Brussels, largely focused on the economic fallout from the conflict, particularly the impact on energy markets. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the importance of defending international law and pursuing de-escalation, but indicated there was no appetite among EU members to directly intervene in the conflict. “I have not heard anyone here express a willingness to enter this conflict – quite the opposite,” Macron stated.
Discussions within the EU centered on potential reforms to energy trading systems, but ultimately failed to yield a consensus on concrete measures. Al Jazeera’s Step Vaessen, reporting from Brussels, noted that the European Central Bank has already cut growth forecasts and raised inflation predictions in the coming months, anticipating “very high energy costs” across the bloc. Vaessen reported that despite extensive debate, “the general consensus was that there is no consensus.”
The conflict, which began with US-Israeli strikes, has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced millions, according to reports. Iran has effectively blocked passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil supplies, prompting the US to seek assistance from allies in securing safe passage for commercial vessels. Trump has repeatedly called for other nations to contribute to this effort, despite not consulting them prior to initiating military action.
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