• Trump criticized NATO allies for not supporting the U.S.-Israel war against Iran.
• He called them "cowards" for refusing to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz.
• Germany, France, and other nations reaffirmed their commitment to safe passage but under combat conditions.
• The statement came amidst rising global oil prices linked to the conflict.
• Trump claims NATO is ineffective without U.S. support, labeling it a "paper tiger."

U.S. President Donald Trump escalated his rhetoric on Friday, condemning NATO allies for their lack of support in the ongoing US-Israel war against Iran. He referred to these long-time allies as "cowards," emphasizing that "Without the U.S.A., NATO IS A PAPER TIGER!" The criticism specifically targeted nations that have voiced concerns over high oil prices while refusing to assist in securing the key shipping lane through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively blocked by Iran, according to channelnewsasia and scmp.

The conflict, which began with US-Israel strikes on February 28, has not only caused civilian casualties but also significant disruption to global markets, displacing millions. Trump asserted that NATO countries are reluctant to engage in military actions that would alleviate these oil price challenges despite the fact that he claims the military fight against Iran has already been achieved with minimal risk for them, as noted by reuters and indiatimes.

In response to Trump’s remarks, various European leaders including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged their nations' positions but noted any military support would be contingent upon a cessation of combat operations. Macron commented that promoting de-escalation was “the best we can do” in the current context, according to aljazeera and channelnewsasia.

The NATO alliance is re-evaluating its mission in Iraq amidst these conflicts, which has seen a temporary withdrawal of personnel in response to the hostilities affecting regional stability. Trump’s statements come at a time when the European economy faces upward pressures on energy costs, further complicating diplomatic relations and operational decisions, as detailed by reports from scmp and indiatimes.