Trump urges global allies to help reopen Strait of Hormuz, warns of NATO consequences

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has intensified his efforts to rally international support for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, cautioning that the future of NATO could be jeopardized if European and Asian allies do not participate.

In an interview with the Financial Times on Sunday, Trump stated, “If there’s no response or if it’s a negative response, I think it will be very bad for the future of NATO.” He emphasized that countries reliant on Gulf oil should share the responsibility of maintaining the free flow of energy through the strategically significant waterway. “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.

The remarks were made during an eight-minute phone call with the Financial Times, following his earlier appeal to international partners to assist in securing the passage. Trump also mentioned the possibility of postponing his upcoming summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as he urged Beijing to contribute to efforts aimed at unblocking the Strait.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime chokepoint for global oil shipments, and recent tensions in the region have raised concerns about the security of energy supplies. Trump’s comments reflect growing US concerns about the stability of the area and the need for a coordinated international response.

Trump’s call for shared responsibility comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to address security challenges in the Gulf. His warning regarding NATO underscores the significance he places on allied cooperation in addressing threats to global energy routes.

The US President’s statements highlight the broader geopolitical implications of the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, as well as the potential impact on international alliances if a collective approach is not adopted.