A British minister responsible for defense today denied reports that NATO would withdraw its support if Donald Trump did not send warships to the Strait of Hormuz in the coming days.
NATO chief Mark Rutte reportedly told members yesterday that Trump was pushing for concrete commitments to send military ships or other equipment to the Middle East.
This report came shortly after he described NATO as ‘very disappointing’ and accused NATO of only acting when pressure was applied.
Defense procurement minister Luke Pollard told Times Radio: ‘This is not an activity that we are aware of.
We have made clear that the war in Iran is not our war, but we have stepped up our support to defend our allies against reckless attacks by Iran not only on British and coalition bases but also on our allies in the Gulf.
‘And in fact, NATO secretary general Mark Rutte said yesterday that he praised the work of Keir Starmer and the UK in bringing together allies to support the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring the flow of energy and ships through this important shipping channel.’
