Donald Trump has warned allied countries that the future of NATO could be at stake if they fail to support efforts to secure the vital global shipping route of the Strait of Hormuz.

In an interview with a British newspaper, Trump said the United States is currently in contact with Iran but he does not believe Tehran is ready to reach a new agreement at this stage.

The U.S. president revealed that Washington is holding discussions with around seven countries regarding the security of the strategic waterway. He said these countries are being asked to contribute to efforts aimed at ensuring safe passage for global shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump added that Israel is already cooperating with the United States in efforts to secure the important maritime route, which is considered one of the most critical corridors for global oil transportation.

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He further warned that if NATO allies fail to cooperate on this issue, the future of the military alliance could face serious challenges.

Trump also hinted that a planned meeting with Xi Jinping later this month might be delayed. According to him, the meeting would only be meaningful if countries benefiting from the Hormuz shipping route are willing to help secure it.

Earlier, Trump had urged several nations including South Korea, Japan, France, China and United Kingdom to send naval ships to the region.

However, the global response has remained cautious, and reports suggest that France, the United Kingdom, Japan and Australia have so far declined to deploy naval vessels.