Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a public statement calling on NATO allies to formulate a plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz "within days." The statement, released on April 9, 2026, via his campaign platform, frames the issue as a test of the alliance's resolve.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global chokepoint for oil shipments, located between Iran and Oman. Recent weeks have seen heightened tensions and reported disruptions to shipping in the region, though specific incidents cited by Trump were not immediately verifiable through major international news agencies.
Trump's statement suggested any operation would likely require a military component, including the deployment of vessels and personnel. Initial reactions from European capitals, as reported by Reuters and the Associated Press, indicate significant reluctance to undertake such a mission, with officials emphasizing diplomatic channels.
As a former president and current candidate, Trump's statement carries political weight but does not constitute official U.S. or NATO policy. The current U.S. administration has not issued a corresponding directive to NATO. Analysts note the statement escalates rhetoric around a key geopolitical flashpoint during an election cycle.
