Trump urges NATO allies to join effort to secure Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump is calling on allies in Europe and Asia to help secure the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, warning that their response could have consequences for the future of NATO.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Trump argued that countries benefiting most from energy shipments passing through the narrow waterway should play a direct role in protecting it. 

“It’s only appropriate that people who are the beneficiaries of the Strait will help to make sure that nothing bad happens there,” Trump said, emphasizing that many American allies rely more heavily on Gulf oil than the United States itself.

The president has urged several countries, including European partners and China, to participate in efforts to restore shipping through the passage. Trump suggested that assistance could include naval assets such as minesweepers or military forces capable of countering threats along Iran’s coastline.

He also warned that a lack of support from allies could affect the future of Western security cooperation. “If there’s no response or if it’s a negative response, I think it will be very bad for the future of NATO,” Trump said.

Trump additionally pointed to China’s dependence on energy transported through the strait and said Beijing should also take part in efforts to secure the route. He indicated that the outcome could influence his planned meeting later this month with Chinese President Xi Jinping, suggesting the trip could be delayed if progress is not made.

Oil prices have surged since the conflict began, reflecting growing concern that instability in the region could threaten a key artery of the world’s oil supply.

Despite his call for broader international involvement, Trump acknowledged uncertainty about whether allies would step forward. “We’ve been very sweet,” he said, referring to US support for partners in past conflicts. “Now we’ll see if they help us.”