President Donald Trump assailed NATO allies on Friday, labeling them 'cowards' for refusing to provide military support to reopen the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Israel war against Iran.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "Without the U.S.A., NATO IS A PAPER TIGER!" He added that the fight against a nuclear-armed Iran was 'militarily won' with minimal risk remaining, yet allies complained about surging oil prices without helping secure the vital waterway. "COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!"

The remarks came as the conflict entered its fourth week. The war began on February 28, 2026, when the United States and Israel launched surprise airstrikes under Operations Epic Fury and Roaring Lion, targeting Iranian nuclear sites, missile facilities, and leadership. The strikes killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and numerous officials, prompting Iran's retaliation with missile and drone barrages on Israel, US bases, and Gulf states.

Iran responded by mining and effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of global oil passes. Attacks on tankers and facilities have driven oil prices up over 40%, disrupting shipping and roiling markets. Thousands more US Marines and sailors deployed to the region on Friday to bolster efforts.

NATO allies have offered limited defensive assistance. The alliance intercepted Iranian missiles over Turkey and relocated personnel from Iraq amid the escalation. The United Kingdom permitted US use of bases like RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia for strikes on Iranian missile sites threatening Hormuz shipping, though Iran warned this constituted 'participation in aggression.' Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, and Canada issued a joint statement Thursday pledging support for safe passage through the strait after combat ends, but leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized de-escalation over involvement.

Casualties have mounted, with estimates of 4,000 to 8,000 deaths, predominantly in Iran. US losses stand at 15 service members killed, Israel reports 22 dead, and strikes have spilled into Lebanon and Gulf nations like the UAE and Kuwait. Ongoing Israeli operations killed a Basij intelligence chief, while Iranian projectiles wounded people in Jerusalem's Old City.

Trump's criticism echoes his long-standing complaints about alliance burden-sharing. Allies were not consulted before the strikes, contributing to their reluctance. As oil volatility persists and mediation efforts falter, pressure mounts for a resolution, though Trump predicted a four-week campaign early on.