Washington: US President Donald Trump expressed sharp frustration with NATO allies and regional partners Tuesday, hours after Iran warned it would target American companies operating in the Middle East if Washington escalates military actions.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said Europe and Gulf states “pay too little” for their own defence and “expect America to do everything.” He claimed Iran’s latest threat—aimed at US energy firms and defence contractors—was proof that “weak allies” emboldened Tehran. “They threaten our businesses because nobody else steps up,” Trump stated.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards issued the warning via state media, naming ExxonMobil, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin subsidiaries as potential targets. The statement followed US naval deployments near the Strait of Hormuz and fresh sanctions on Iranian oil. Tehran tied the threats to “economic terrorism” by America.
Trump reiterated his push to end US involvement. “We’ll wrap this up soon if they’re smart. But our companies won’t take hits while allies watch,” he added. Pentagon officials confirmed heightened security for US assets but downplayed immediate risks.
Analysts see mixed signals. “Trump’s ally-bashing rallies his base but strains partnerships,” said foreign policy expert Dr. Emily Carter from Brookings Institution. Gulf sources privately worry a US pullback could leave them exposed.
India tracks closely, with oil imports vulnerable. “Threats to US firms could disrupt regional stability and energy flows,” noted energy analyst Rajiv Singh.
Public reaction splits along lines. Supporters cheer Trump’s tough talk; critics fear rhetoric fuels conflict.
Trump’s outburst underscores alliance strains in the Iran standoff, with business threats raising stakes for global trade and security.
