United States President Donald Trump has sharply criticized NATO countries for their lack of support for the US and Israel's war against Iran, calling Washington's traditional allies "cowards."
Trump made the comments after several NATO countries refused to get militarily involved in operations to open the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which has been blocked by Iran during the conflict. 
In a message published on social media, the American president said that allies complain about rising oil prices, but do not want to help ensure the passage of ships in this vital sea route for global energy. 
Trump's comments have increased tensions within the transatlantic alliance, as many European countries have expressed reluctance to become directly involved in the conflict with Iran and have called for de-escalation of the situation. 
The war, which began on February 28 after US and Israeli attacks on Iran, has shaken global energy markets and exacerbated tensions in the Middle East. 
