Overview
- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who met President Trump Wednesday, told European capitals the White House wants concrete plans within days to help secure the Strait of Hormuz.
- Several member states have refused basing, airspace access, or naval support while fighting continues, saying any role must wait for a ceasefire, a viable plan, and legal cover, and the EU has rejected Iran’s idea of charging tolls.
- Trump ramped up public pressure, posting that “NATO WASN’T THERE” and signaling possible reprisals that could include moving U.S. forces from countries seen as unhelpful.
- Ship‑tracking firms report traffic through Hormuz is still largely halted, which has kept oil prices elevated and left tankers and cargo delayed at a chokepoint that normally carries about one‑fifth of seaborne oil and gas.
- U.S.–Iran talks are set for Saturday in Islamabad with Vice President J.D. Vance leading the U.S. team after a 14‑day ceasefire was announced April 7.