Middle East Crisis Iran War

Trump: “Bad Future” for NATO Without Help with Hormuz

Donald Trump says NATO faces a “very bad” future if US allies do not help him secure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, the Financial Times reports.

Asked what kind of help he expects from NATO, Trump replies: “whatever it takes.”

He also says he may postpone his meeting with China’s Xi Jinping while he presses Beijing to help open the strait.

“It’s only appropriate that people who benefit from the strait help make sure nothing bad happens there,” Trump says.

Trump also claims that the risks of sending ships to the area are minimal, as the US and Israel have “wiped out” Iran’s military capabilities.


Conflicting Reports on US Talks with Iran


The war in Iran is entering its third week and overnight Israel has launched a new wave of attacks on the country. US President Donald Trump says that diplomatic talks are underway with Iran, but rules out a deal anytime soon.

– I don't think they're ready to do what needs to be done, he says, pointing to the country's nuclear energy program.

Iran denies that talks are underway with the US.

– We see no reason to talk to the US, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi tells CBS News.


Trump reportedly planning a new coalition for the Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump is working to create a coalition of countries that will cooperate to open the Strait of Hormuz, four sources tell Axios. The hope is that such a coalition can be presented later this week.

Oil prices continue to rise due to Iran's blockade of the strait, where a significant part of the world's oil is transported.

As long as the blockade is active and oil from the Gulf states is prevented from reaching the outside world, Donald Trump will have difficulty ending the war, according to a source with insight into the discussions.

Trump has appealed for help, both from China and allies. The president warned NATO that the alliance faces a "bad future" if it does not help at Hormuz.

Countries such as Japan, Australia and the United Kingdom have already said there are no plans to send ships to the strait.