An internal email from the Pentagon outlines options for the United States to penalize NATO allies it considers to have failed in supporting U.S. operations in the war with Iran, reports Reuters.
According to a U.S. official who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity, the options under discussion include suspending the participation of Spain in NATO, as well as reviewing the American position on the United Kingdom’s claims over the Falkland Islands.
The document expresses frustration over what is described as a lack of willingness by some allies to grant the U.S. access, basing rights, and overflight permissions—considered a “key prerequisite for NATO.” According to the official, these options are circulating at high levels within the Pentagon.
One proposal includes removing “problematic” countries from key positions within NATO structures.
U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply criticized allies for not deploying naval forces to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which was closed to international navigation following the outbreak of war on February 28. He has also hinted at the possibility of the U.S. withdrawing from NATO, although the email does not recommend such a step or the closure of American bases in Europe.
Asked about the email, Pentagon spokesperson Kingsley Wilson said: “As President Trump has stated, despite everything the United States has done for its NATO allies, they have not stood by us. The Department of Defense will ensure the president has credible options so that allies are no longer ‘paper tigers,’ but fulfill their obligations. We have no further comment on internal discussions regarding this matter,” he added.
