(From L) Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, France's President Emmanuel Macron and Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz speak during a joint press conference following an international summit on efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz at the Elysee Presidential Palace in Paris. AFP
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said he had told NATO to “stay away” from involvement, adding that the alliance only reached out to Washington after the fact. He described NATO as a “Paper Tiger,” writing: “They were useless when needed.”
His remarks came as European leaders met in Paris to coordinate a possible multinational effort to ensure freedom of navigation in the strategic waterway following recent regional tensions.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Germany would participate in further military planning discussions and welcomed broader international involvement. “We would also welcome, if possible, the participation of the United States of America,” he said, calling US involvement “desirable.”
Merz added that soaring energy prices must fall “as quickly as possible,” warning the crisis should not become a “transatlantic stress test.” He said any German contribution would depend on a “secure legal basis,” such as a UN Security Council resolution, and could include Bundeswehr support for mine clearance and maritime reconnaissance after hostilities cease.
France and the United Kingdom said they would lead the proposed multinational mission once conditions allow. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described it as “strictly peaceful and defensive,” aimed at protecting commercial shipping and supporting mine clearance, with more than a dozen countries already offering contributions.
The Paris talks brought together over 30 leaders, most via video link, though neither the United States nor Iran participated.
Earlier today, Iran announced that the Strait of Hormuz would remain open to commercial shipping during the remainder of the ceasefire with the US.
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