Trump slams NATO as Iran war strains alliance

US President Donald Trump has sharply criticized NATO, accusing the alliance of failing to support Washington during the Iran conflict, deepening tensions within the transatlantic bloc.

During a private meeting at the White House with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Trump reportedly expressed frustration over what he sees as a lack of backing from key allies. According to the White House, the US president believes NATO countries did not meet expectations during the military standoff with Iran.

“They were tested, and they failed,” Trump said, as quoted by officials, adding later that “NATO wasn’t there when we needed them.”

Several NATO members had declined to provide military assistance, including denying US aircraft access to their airspace and refraining from deploying naval forces to help secure the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway is critical for global energy supplies and was a focal point during the conflict.

NATO faces deep crisis amid US-Iran war tensions

Rutte acknowledged the concerns, saying that while some allies fell short, “the large majority of Europeans” had still contributed. He described his discussion with Trump as “frank and open,” emphasizing the importance of maintaining unity within the alliance.

The dispute comes at a sensitive time, as the US and Iran have agreed to a temporary ceasefire, but geopolitical tensions remain high. Trump has repeatedly labeled NATO a “paper tiger” and has even threatened to withdraw the United States from the alliance, raising alarm among European leaders.

Analysts warn that the fallout from the Iran conflict could have lasting consequences for NATO, already strained by disagreements over defense spending, Ukraine, and broader security priorities.

Despite the tensions, diplomatic engagement continues, with both sides aiming to prevent a deeper rift in one of the world’s most significant military alliances.