Former U.S. President Donald Trump launched a sharp critique of NATO on April 17, 2026, describing the alliance as a "Paper Tiger" and "useless when needed." Speaking via Truth Social, Trump claimed he rejected an offer of support from NATO regarding maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, instructing them "to stay away, unless they just want to load up their ships with oil."
Trump's comments coincided with a reported de-escalation of tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that commercial shipping would continue uninterrupted through the strait for the duration of an ongoing ceasefire, linking the move to a broader framework tied to Lebanon.
Iran Confirms Open Shipping Lanes
According to Araqchi, all vessels could safely transit using routes coordinated by Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organisation. Trump hailed these developments as a "great and brilliant day for the world," asserting that Iran had agreed never to use the waterway as leverage in global energy markets again. However, no formal public confirmation from Tehran has supported this specific claim regarding a permanent commitment.
Trump also highlighted what he termed a significant diplomatic success, crediting Pakistan's leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army chief Asim Munir, for facilitating backchannel talks. He stated that Pakistan played a central role in weeks of shuttle diplomacy, hosting key discussions in Islamabad to mediate between Iran and Gulf stakeholders. Trump even suggested a potential visit to Islamabad if a formal agreement is reached.
Regional Diplomacy and Mine Removal
Beyond Pakistan, Trump extended appreciation to other regional powers, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, for their involvement in what he described as a coordinated diplomatic effort to stabilize the Gulf and ensure the continued flow of energy supplies.
Further, Trump claimed that Iran, with U.S. assistance, was actively engaged in removing sea mines from key shipping lanes. He presented this as another indicator that immediate threats to maritime security in the region were receding.