Donald Trump stated on April 12th that the UK and other nations will send mine-sweeping vessels to the Strait of Hormuz, while also criticizing NATO and threatening tariffs on China.
Trump Disappointed with NATO
The American president reiterated his disappointment with NATO’s stance, adding that allies are only now willing to offer assistance. He stated that they now want to come and help in the strait, and its clearing won’t take long.
Trump believes the allies’ attitude towards war with Iran suggests a reassessment of the US’s future in the alliance, stating that the US must rethink NATO because they weren’t with us, and haven’t been for 25 years.
UK Deployment and Past Statements
Trump recalled declarations from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who explained his country could only send ships after the war’s conclusion, as well as calls from Germany to end the war and claims that Germany didn’t start it. Trump stated, “He said: ‘we didn’t start this war.’ Well, we didn’t start the war with Ukraine, but we helped them.”
Strait of Hormuz Blockade Confirmed
Trump also confirmed his intention to blockade the strait, as previously announced on Truth Social. He stated that other countries will be involved in the blockade, without specifying which nations have offered their support.
Tariffs on China for Arms to Iran
The US President threatened to impose a 50% tariff on Chinese goods if Beijing transfers weapons to Iran. However, he assessed that China would not dare to do so, stating he has relationships with them.
Trump said he’s hearing reports that China is providing shoulder-fired missiles and anti-aircraft missiles. If caught, they will receive a 50% tariff, which he described as a staggering amount. He added that the same applies to other countries sending weapons to Iran.
