Trump Warns NATO of “Very Bad Future” if Allies Refuse Hormuz Security Role

Donald Trump speaking on global security

Donald Trump has warned European members of NATO that the alliance could face a “very bad future” if they refuse to assist in securing the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to the Financial Times, Trump urged countries that depend on energy shipments passing through the waterway to contribute to its protection. Countries including the United Kingdom and France, as well as major oil-importing nations such as Japan, South Korea, and China, should join what Trump described as a “team effort” to safeguard the key maritime route.

“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.

He also suggested that diplomatic engagements could be affected if cooperation is not forthcoming, indicating that he might delay a planned visit to China if Beijing declines to participate in the security initiative.

Iranian officials have pushed back against Trump’s remarks, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps challenging the United States to test its claims about the strength of Iran’s naval capabilities. An IRGC spokesperson said that if Washington believes Iran’s navy has been weakened, it should send its warships into the Persian Gulf.

“Didn’t Trump say that Iran’s navy has been destroyed? If so, let him send his ships into the Persian Gulf if he dares,” the spokesperson said.

Tehran has maintained that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to global shipping but warned that access could be restricted for what it calls “hostile nations.”

The dispute comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Reports indicate that the Israel Defense Forces has requested government approval to mobilise up to 450,000 reservists in preparation for a potential ground operation in Lebanon as hostilities between Israel, the United States, and Iran continue. Meanwhile, the financial costs of the conflict are mounting. Kevin Hassett said US military operations against Iran have already cost Washington about US$12 billion.

Global oil markets have reacted sharply to the developments. Brent crude prices rose to nearly US$106 per barrel after Trump claimed that Kharg Island had been “totally demolished,” while also suggesting further strikes could follow. Analysts warn that damage to infrastructure at Kharg Island, Iran’s primary oil export hub, could trigger deeper disruptions to global energy supplies. The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly a fifth of the world’s traded oil, making it one of the most strategically important shipping routes for global energy markets.

Trump Strait of Hormuz warning