On Sunday, President Trump issued a stark warning about NATO’s future, suggesting it could be bleak if allied nations do not assist in reopening the vital Strait of Hormuz amid rising oil prices triggered by the conflict with Iran.
In a conversation with the Financial Times, Trump emphasized that European countries and other global powers reliant on oil from the Gulf should join a U.S.-led initiative to secure the strait. This passage is crucial, as it normally handles about a fifth of the world’s oil supply.
“It’s only fair that those benefiting from the Strait contribute to ensuring its safety,” Trump conveyed to the British news outlet, highlighting that Europe and China depend more heavily on oil from this region than the United States does.
“A lack of response, or a negative one, could spell trouble for NATO’s future,” he cautioned.
The president also mentioned the possibility of postponing his upcoming summit with China’s President Xi Jinping, as he seeks Beijing’s assistance in unblocking the Strait.
In a related move, Iran announced on Saturday that all nations, except for the U.S. and Israel, would be permitted to navigate through the waterway. This announcement came shortly after the U.S. targeted Iranian military sites on the strategically important Kharg Island.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
