"This is the most difficult situation NATO has been in since its founding": Trump's anger over Iran pushes the Alliance into a new crisis (Reuters)

The NATO alliance has survived in recent years existential challenges - from the war in Ukraine to multiple pressures and insults from American President Donald Trump - but the war between the US and Israel with Iran is the one that has nearly destroyed the 76-year-old bloc and threatens to leave it in its weakest state since its creation, analysts and diplomats say, writes Reuters.

Trump, furious that European countries refused to send naval forces to open the Strait of Hormuz for global shipping after the start of the air war on February 28, stated that he is considering withdrawing from the alliance.

"Wouldn't you do it if you were in my place?" Trump asked in an interview with Reuters on Wednesday.

Analysts emphasize that this is the most serious situation NATO has faced since its founding, and trust in the mutual defense agreement is declining.

"This is the most difficult situation NATO has been in since its inception," said Max Bergmann, a former State Department official who now leads the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

Europe, which has long depended on NATO for security, is beginning to wonder if it can continue without American support.

Additionally, Trump has expressed frustration with NATO, accusing allies of not providing enough support in times of crisis.

NATO has been challenged before, not least during Trump's first term from 2017 to 2021, when he also considered withdrawing from the alliance.

"We are turning the page after 80 years of collaboration"

However, while many European officials believed until recently that Trump could be kept on board with pomp and flattery, fewer now hold this belief, according to conversations with dozens of former and current American and European officials.

Even if Trump and Europeans find a way to stay together in NATO, say diplomats, analysts, and officials, the transatlantic alliance that has been essential for the global order since World War II may never be the same again.

"I believe we are turning the page on 80 years of collaboration," said Julianne Smith, the US ambassador to NATO during Democratic President Joe Biden's term.

Although he cannot legally withdraw the US from NATO without the Senate's consent, Trump could refuse to protect European allies, which could undermine the alliance. Despite these challenges, some officials believe the situation could be temporary, but others warn that the transatlantic alliance could fundamentally change.

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