Donald Trump has sharply criticised NATO allies, branding them “cowards” over their stance on Iran, as tensions escalate with reports of additional US Marines being deployed to the Middle East.
Three weeks into the conflict, discussions have intensified around a possible ground operation, with Kharg Island emerging as a potential strategic target.
The White House indicated that the United States has the capability to strike the island at any time if authorised by the president.
Reports suggest Trump is weighing options such as occupying or blockading the island to pressure Tehran into reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil supply.
“So easy for them to do, with so little risk. COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, criticising NATO for failing to support efforts to counter what he described as a “Nuclear Powered Iran.”
“Without the U.S.A., NATO IS A PAPER TIGER!”
Despite the criticism, several global powers, including Britain, France, Germany, and Japan, have stated they are prepared to “contribute to appropriate efforts,” although no firm commitments have been announced.
Speaking at the White House, Trump maintained that the joint US-Israeli operation was progressing successfully.
“It’s not even a contest,” he said, while also noting difficulties in diplomatic engagement with Iran following the deaths of key leadership figures.
Rising global oil prices linked to the conflict have increased pressure on the administration, with concerns among Republicans that prolonged instability could impact upcoming elections.
Although Trump has previously stated he does not intend to deploy ground troops, reports indicate that between 2,200 and 2,500 US Marines linked to the USS Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit have been positioned in the region.
US military officials described the deployments as routine operations at sea, while earlier reports pointed to an additional 2,500 Marines already sent to the Middle East.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly reiterated that military options remain on the table, stating that the administration is fully prepared for any escalation involving Iran.
According to officials, US forces have already targeted military assets on Kharg Island, with Trump claiming the strikes had “totally obliterated” those objectives.
While the US has so far avoided hitting the island’s core oil infrastructure, Trump has warned that such action could follow if Iran continues to obstruct movement through the Strait of Hormuz.
What you should know
This development signals a sharp escalation in US-Iran tensions, with strategic oil infrastructure like Kharg Island becoming central to military and economic pressure tactics.
Trump’s criticism of NATO reflects ongoing disagreements within Western alliances on how to handle the conflict. The Strait of Hormuz remains a key global chokepoint, and any disruption there can significantly impact oil prices worldwide.
The deployment of Marines, even if described as routine, suggests preparedness for rapid escalation if diplomatic or military conditions shift.
