Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth slams NATO allies as ‘shameful’ over their response to a U.S. war in Iran

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed NATO defense ministers in a recent meeting. He condemned the alliance’s reaction to the United States’ war in Iran. Hegseth described the response as “shameful.” The remarks continued the Trump administration’s critique of European defense policies. He argued that European allies are not meeting required security standards. The comments highlighted tensions between Washington and NATO partners. NATO officials have not publicly responded to the accusations. The episode may shape future U.S.–NATO defense cooperation.