Trump Voices Displeasure with UK and France on Strait of Hormuz Coalition
US President Donald Trump has openly criticized the United Kingdom and France for their reluctance to join a coalition aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. During a lunch with the Trump Kennedy Center Board Members, Trump emphasized that the United States does not require assistance from other nations, citing its unparalleled military strength.
Trump's Remarks on European Allies
Trump stated, "I am not happy with the UK, and I think they'll be involved, maybe, but they should be involved enthusiastically." He further commented on French President Emmanuel Macron, rating him an eight on a scale of zero to ten, but noted, "Not perfect, but it's France... I think he's going to help." Trump underscored that he does not pressure allies, asserting, "We don't need anybody. We're the strongest nation in the world. We have the strongest military by far in the world."
Background on Macron's Stance
Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron engaged in a conversation with Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian, urging an immediate cessation of attacks by Iran against countries in the West Asia region, whether direct or through proxies. Macron emphasized France's defensive actions to protect its interests and freedom of navigation, posting on X that such targeting is unacceptable.
US Military Operations in Iran
Trump provided detailed updates on US operations against Iran, claiming significant successes. He mentioned, "We have it (Strait of Hormuz) in very good shape. We've already taken care of Iran." Key achievements highlighted include:
- Destruction of Kharg Island, with all infrastructure except oil pipes targeted to allow future rebuilding.
- Aggressive dismantling of Iran's defense industrial base, reducing missile and drone capabilities to near zero.
- Destruction of over 30 mine-laying ships and more than 100 Iranian naval vessels in recent operations.
- Strikes on over 7,000 targets across Iran, achieving a 90% reduction in ballistic missile launches and a 95% reduction in drone attacks.
Trump added, "Our powerful military campaign to end the threats posed by the Iranian regime continued in full force over the past few days. They have been literally obliterated."
White House Comments and Future Plans
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed journalists, noting Trump's disappointment that the UK had not acted more swiftly in supporting the Strait of Hormuz initiative. She stated, "He wished the UK had stepped up sooner and quicker." Leavitt also mentioned Trump's ongoing calls for European allies to increase support, similar to his previous demands for higher NATO defense spending.
Regarding a planned visit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Leavitt indicated that dates might be adjusted due to the priority of Operation Epic Fury. She said, "As commander in chief, it's his number one priority right now to ensure the continued success of this operation." Questions about deploying US Marines were deferred to the Pentagon.
Trump concluded by emphasizing the global impact of US actions, stating, "They've been a terror for 47 years, and now, the world, through the United States, with the help of Israel, is doing what should have been done many years ago."
