Trump Calls NATO Allies 'Cowards' for Failing to Deploy Warships to Hormuz; Demands Partners Share Burden

President Trump publicly criticized NATO allies as 'cowards' for insufficient action in securing the Strait of Hormuz, escalating pressure on Europe and Asia to contribute naval forces. In remarks at the White House, Trump stated: 'These NATO countries, they sit back and watch us do all the work. They are cowards. They need to send their warships.' The outburst came days after the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Japan issued a joint statement expressing willingness to join 'appropriate efforts' for safe Hormuz passage (Day 21) — but have not yet deployed warships. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said the Alliance was 'examining options' but noted Iran has not attacked NATO-member shipping directly. Trump's frustration reflects the reality that the Hormuz selective blockade — which allows Chinese and Indian vessels but bars US, Israeli, and many Western-allied ships — is beginning to damage Gulf state economies that are ostensibly US partners. The QatarEnergy CEO's warning against attacking energy infrastructure and Qatar's LNG production halt have added urgency to Trump's pressure campaign. Analysts note that unilateral US-only Hormuz operations are straining CENTCOM resources already committed to the Iran air campaign.