ALBAWABA- US President Donald Trump sharply escalated his criticism of NATO, declaring the alliance “obsolete” and accusing its members of refusing to support the ongoing US-Israeli military campaign against Iran.
In a lengthy post on Truth Social, Trump said the United States no longer needed NATO support, arguing that American forces were “single-handedly” dismantling Iran’s military capabilities while allies remained on the sidelines. He questioned why US taxpayers should continue funding the defence of countries that, he said, were unwilling to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz.
The remarks came hours after the resignation of Joe Kent, who stepped down in protest over the war and criticized the administration’s Iran policy. Trump dismissed the resignation, reiterating that the military campaign was necessary to counter what he described as a long-standing regional threat.
PRESIDENT TRUMP: Iran was the bully of the world because they used oil to bribe and to gain power. How are they doing now? Not so good. They’re all gone now, every one of them. pic.twitter.com/twyeggpii3
— Department of State (@StateDept) March 17, 2026
In the same statement, Trump also turned his criticism toward Gulf partners, urging countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to take a more active role in maritime security operations.
He argued that nations whose economies depend heavily on energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz should contribute more to protecting the route, particularly after recent attacks on shipping.
The comments highlight widening divisions between Washington and its traditional allies. European governments, including Germany, France, the UK, Spain, Japan, China, and Australia, have ruled out participation in the campaign, citing the risk of escalation and the alliance’s defensive mandate. Mark Rutte said NATO has “no mandate or intention” to engage in operations against Iran.
