Trump Calls NATO Allies “Cowards” as Strait of Hormuz Tensions Rise

Good day. It's Friday, March 20th, 2026. I'm Alice Beth, and this is your latest NEWS UPDATE from GLOBAL News Daily. U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply criticized NATO allies, calling them cowards for refusing to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical oil shipping routes. Trump said it would be easy for allied nations to help reopen and secure the vital waterway, but claimed that most had informed Washington they did not want to get involved. The Strait of Hormuz is a key choke point for global energy supplies, with a significant portion of the world's oil passing through it daily.

Any disruption there could have major economic consequences worldwide. Meanwhile, tensions are also rising between Iran and the United Kingdom. Iran's foreign ministry says it has warned London that allowing the United States to use British military bases would be considered participation in aggression. In response, Downing St. says the UK is not getting drawn into a wider war on the ground. Fighting continues to intensify. Israel has carried out new air strikes on Tehran, even as Iranians mark Nauru's the Persian New Year, a time typically associated with celebration and renewal.

In retaliation, Iran has launched multiple rounds of missiles toward Jerusalem. For our deep dive and analysis, unlock the exclusive subscriber episode in Apple Podcast now. Please follow this show on Spotify. It really helps. Thanks for listening, Global News Daily.