French official says Trump shifting burden of Iran crisis onto allies

France’s Minister Delegate for European Affairs Benjamin Haddad has criticised US President Donald Trump’s stance on the ongoing conflict involving Iran, warning against shifting responsibility for its consequences onto other countries.

In an interview with CNews, Haddad said that it was not acceptable to create a crisis and then expect others to resolve it, in reference to Trump’s suggestion that countries should take it upon themselves to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments.

Haddad cautioned that the conflict in Iran could become prolonged and carry serious long-term consequences. He noted that the fighting has already lasted for about a month with no clear resolution in sight, and stressed the need for governments to prepare for a drawn-out crisis.

He also highlighted the global impact of the conflict, particularly on energy markets. While France has been less exposed than some countries to disruptions in regional oil supplies, Haddad said it has still experienced rising fuel costs. He added that increasing fuel prices are also a significant concern in the United States.

The French official underscored that the repercussions of the conflict involving the United States and Israel in Iran are being felt worldwide, contributing to economic pressure and uncertainty beyond the immediate region.

A reminder that Trump has earlier blamed NATO allies for not backing the US stance on Iran, calling the alliance a “paper tiger” and saying he is strongly considering pulling the United States out of NATO because member states refused to join his efforts — particularly in reopening the Strait of Hormuz — and thus failed a “loyalty test” in his view.

By Sabina Mammadli