Donald Trump ‘not happy’ with Australia over Strait of Hormuz, ignores boost to defence spending
Washington: US President Donald Trump ignored Canberra’s recently announced defense spending increase as he renewed accusations that Australia is not helping him enough on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz.
Asked about the announcement, which was made partly to ease Washington’s criticism of Australia’s low military spending, Trump first said “we’ll see what happens” and then talked about US success in Iran.
When asked again, he began to condemn Australia for not helping the war, especially the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
“I’m not happy with Australia because they weren’t there when we asked them to be there,” he said.
“Australia is another country. They weren’t there regarding Ormuz. So I’m not happy, I’m not happy with them.”
Trump made the comments while taking questions as he left the White House on Thursday (Friday morning AEST).
He did not respond to shouted questions about whether he was still on good terms with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Australia, along with dozens of other countries, has agreed to participate in “appropriate efforts” to help reopen the strait at the right time.
Michael Koziol is the North America correspondent for The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald. He is a former Sydney editor, Sun-Herald deputy editor and a federal political correspondent in Canberra.Connect with: X or email.
