In an interview, Trump criticized the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and suggested that the United States could leave the long-standing military alliance.
Trump described NATO as a “paper tiger” and said the possibility of withdrawing the United States from the alliance was now “beyond reconsideration”. He added that he had long questioned the credibility and effectiveness of the organization.
“Oh yes, I would say [it’s] beyond reconsideration,” Trump said when asked whether he might rethink America’s membership in NATO after the conflict. He further added, “I was never swayed by NATO. I always knew they were a paper tiger, and Putin knows that too, by the way.”
His remarks come at a time when tensions between the United States, Iran, and Israel remain high, and many NATO allies have not openly backed Washington’s military operations against Tehran.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also hinted that Washington might reassess its ties with NATO members after the war. Speaking to Fox News, Rubio said the United States would not ignore the lack of support from allies during the crisis.
Also Read: War could end in two to three weeks, says Trump
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also urged other countries to take more responsibility in helping reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route that has been affected by the conflict.
The war and rising oil prices have already created political pressure inside the United States. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll showed that nearly two-thirds of Americans believe the country should try to end the Iran conflict quickly.
Reports also suggest that the United Arab Emirates is considering supporting US efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz. According to the Wall Street Journal, the UAE may seek a United Nations Security Council resolution for military action to ensure safe shipping routes in the region.
The possible US exit from NATO would mark one of the biggest shifts in global security alliances in decades. NATO has been the backbone of Western defense cooperation since the Cold War.
