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President Donald Trump has criticised NATO allies, describing them as “cowards” over their response to the ongoing conflict with Iran, as reports suggest additional US Marines are being deployed to the Middle East.
The remarks came as speculation grew over a possible ground operation three weeks into the war involving the United States and Israel.
A potential focus of military action is Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil export hub. The White House indicated that the United States could target the facility if authorised by the president.
Reports suggest Washington is considering options, including occupying or blockading the island, to pressure Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route.
Trump renewed his criticism of NATO for not supporting efforts to secure the waterway, which he blames for rising global oil prices.
“So easy for them to do, with so little risk. COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!” he wrote on his Truth Social platform, also claiming that “Without the U.S.A., NATO IS A PAPER TIGER!”
Several countries, including Britain, France, Germany and Japan, have indicated willingness to contribute to efforts to secure the strait but have not made firm commitments.
Despite earlier pledges to avoid prolonged Middle Eastern conflicts, Trump said the joint US-Israeli military campaign was progressing successfully.
“It’s not even a contest,” he said during an event at the White House.
Although Trump has stated he does not intend to deploy ground troops in Iran, reports indicate that between 2,200 and 2,500 US Marines from the USS Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit are currently positioned in the region.
US military officials described the deployments as routine operations, though analysts say they could support potential escalation if required.
White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly said the US military is prepared for any action deemed necessary, adding that forces have already taken steps to counter Iranian threats to maritime security.
US strikes reportedly targeted Kharg Island on Friday, with Trump claiming that military objectives there had been “totally obliterated.”
The conflict has intensified pressure on global energy markets, with disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz driving up oil prices and raising concerns about wider economic impacts.
