Hegseth Demands European Action in Iran Conflict
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has once again directed sharp criticism toward European nations, insisting they must take concrete steps to assist in opening the Strait of Hormuz. The United States has repeatedly expressed strong disapproval of its NATO allies for failing to support American military operations in Iran and for not contributing to securing the strategic waterway.
“We are not counting on Europe, but they need the Strait of Hormuz much more than we do, and might want to start doing less talking and having less fancy conferences in Europe and get in a boat,” Hegseth declared during a Friday news conference.
Hegseth went on to describe the ongoing war as President Donald Trump’s “gift to the world” and accused European and Asian countries of ingratitude. “Europe and Asia have benefited from our protection for decades, but the time for free riding is over,” he added.
Washington has implemented a blockade on Iranian ports in the Gulf of Oman, stating that it will only be lifted if Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz and agrees to a peace deal on US terms. The remarks come amid heightened tensions and follow recent threats related to the Falkland Islands.
For full coverage, see: Iran-US war latest: Hegseth demands Europe ‘stop talking and get in a boat’ to open Strait of Hormuz after Falklands threat.
