U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio sharply criticized NATO allies for what he described as hypocrisy in their reluctance to assist with the ongoing conflict against Iran, contrasting it with America's leading role in aiding Ukraine.

Rubio made the remarks on March 26 ahead of a Group of Seven foreign ministers' meeting in France, where discussions centered on the U.S.-led military campaign against Iran and securing the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. has intensified operations to dismantle Iran's navy, air force, missile production facilities, and drone capabilities, with Rubio stating the campaign is ahead of schedule and focused solely on military objectives.

"A couple of the leaders in Europe said that this was not Europe's war," Rubio told reporters. "Well, Ukraine is not America's war, and yet we've contributed more to that fight than any other country in the world." He added, "The United States is constantly being asked to help in a war... on a war that's happening on another continent, in Ukraine. But when the U.S. had a need, [President Trump] didn't get positive responses."

The comments came amid President Trump's public skepticism toward NATO, echoing long-standing U.S. frustrations over burden-sharing. Rubio defended the president, noting that European allies have a greater stake in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, through which much of their energy imports flow, compared to the U.S. Iran has threatened to impose a "tolling system" on the vital waterway post-conflict, prompting Rubio to urge G7 partners to form a coalition to prevent it.

At the G7 meeting, Rubio reported constructive discussions, with allies expressing appreciation for U.S. updates and committing to collaborate on Hormuz security. The United Kingdom took a prominent role in coordinating efforts, and others signaled buy-in, though the U.S. emphasized it is not seeking assistance for the active war phase.

European responses were mixed. Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stressed maintaining support for Ukraine amid the Iran crisis, while France's Gen. Fabien Mandon questioned the lack of prior notification for U.S. actions. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called for a partnership to counter Iran's economic leverage.

The Iran conflict escalated recently, with U.S. strikes targeting regime assets used to sponsor terrorism and supply Russia with drones and missiles for Ukraine. Rubio outlined a postwar focus on ensuring free navigation in international waters, positioning the U.S. as willing but not leading the effort.

Rubio's pointed remarks underscore ongoing tensions within the alliance, as the U.S. balances its commitments in multiple theaters while pressing allies to contribute proportionally.