WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump thanked Gulf nations for their support while sharply criticizing the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, signaling growing tensions in transatlantic relations.
“I want to thank the entire Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. You’ve been very helpful, unlike NATO,” Trump said, also acknowledging the roles of Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Kuwait.
In his remarks, the US president claimed that Gulf countries had actively participated in operations, stating that they “fought” alongside the United States, even referencing incidents where defensive actions resulted in US aircraft being shot down.
Trump’s comments mark a notable departure from traditional US rhetoric that has long emphasized NATO as a cornerstone of collective defense, and instead highlight a growing emphasis on partnerships with Gulf allies.
The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing conflict dynamics, where cooperation between the United States and Gulf nations has intensified, particularly in countering aerial threats and maintaining regional stability.
Analysts say Trump’s statements could further strain relations with NATO allies, many of whom have been engaged in parallel diplomatic and security efforts, while underscoring Washington’s evolving strategic priorities in the Middle East.
The comments are likely to fuel debate over burden-sharing and alliance commitments, as the US recalibrates its partnerships in response to emerging global security challenges.
