Trump attacks Nato over Strait of Hormuz as he issues new threat

WorldPolitics
18 Mar 2026 • 9:06 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Donald Trump threatened to transfer responsibility for opening the Strait of Hormuz to countries that use the route, criticising allies for their lack of military support.
  • This follows Iran's announcement over two weeks ago that it had closed the key waterway, placing all vessels at risk and causing global oil prices to surge.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial passage through which approximately one-fifth of the world's oil travels.
  • In a Truth Social post, Mr Trump suggested that allowing other nations to manage the Strait would compel 'non-responsive "Allies"' to act swiftly.
  • He also launched a strong attack on Nato, alleging the alliance abandoned the US, though Nato leaders insist that assisting with the Strait is not within their remit.

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