Trump Criticizes NATO for Insufficient Support in US-Israel War on Iran

March 20, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Trump Criticizes NATO for Insufficient Support in US-Israel War on Iran

US President Donald Trump has expressed frustration with NATO allies over their lack of support for US-Israeli efforts to counter Iran’s influence in the region. The Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea, remains closed due to Iranian actions, and no end to the conflict is in sight.

Trump took to his Truth Social platform to criticize NATO countries, stating that they are “cowards” for not joining the fight against Iran. He argued that despite their reluctance to engage militarily, NATO nations continue to complain about high oil prices, which he believes could be mitigated by opening the Strait of Hormuz.

The US president has been calling on major allies and other countries to help secure shipping through the strait, which is currently under Iranian control. The conflict has had significant global implications, including rising oil prices and economic instability.

NATO officials have confirmed that they are adjusting their mission in Iraq, with personnel being relocated to Europe. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that defending international law and promoting de-escalation was a priority for the European Union, but acknowledged that there was no consensus on measures to address the crisis.

The European Central Bank has also announced plans to cut growth forecasts and raise inflation predictions, citing high energy costs as a major concern. Leaders discussed reforming an energy trading system, but ultimately failed to reach a consensus.

Source: Al Jazeera