Trump renews criticism of Japan, South Korea for not helping US in Iran war
Why it matters: Iran faces potential destruction of its critical infrastructure by April 7 at 8 PM if it doesn't reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
- US President Donald Trump criticized Japan, South Korea, Australia, and NATO for not providing naval assistance in the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Israeli war against Iran, despite the presence of tens of thousands of US troops protecting them.
- Trump praised Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia as "good" partners for their contributions since the war began on February 28.
- Trump issued an ultimatum to Iran, threatening to destroy its critical infrastructure, including bridges and power plants, within four hours starting April 7 at 8 PM (8 AM, Singapore time, April 8), unless Tehran agrees to a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
- Iran's official IRNA news agency reported that Iran rejected Washington's 15-point ceasefire proposal and instead presented its own 10-point plan for a permanent end to the war and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
President Trump renewed his criticism of key allies Japan, South Korea, and Australia for their lack of naval support in the US-Israeli war against Iran, contrasting their inaction with the contributions of Middle Eastern partners like Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. He issued a stark ultimatum to Iran, threatening the destruction of its critical infrastructure within hours if it doesn't agree to a deal ensuring the free flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, a demand Iran countered with its own 10-point peace plan. Trump's remarks underscore a transactional view of alliances, linking US military protection to reciprocal assistance.
