British News Agency

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt made statements regarding the strategic priorities of the U.S. administration in the Middle East and its expectations from allies.

Referring to President Trump’s diplomatic contacts, Leavitt said, “U.S. President Donald Trump is speaking with our allies in Europe and many of our partners in the Gulf and the Arab world to encourage them to make greater efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In particular, our NATO allies need to do more on this issue.”

Underlining the protective role of the United States in the region, Leavitt said, “The United States is not only protecting our assets and bases in the Middle East, but is also leading efforts to protect Europe and the world from Iran’s attempt to obtain a nuclear bomb.”

Leavitt also touched on domestic political debates regarding budget and funding, saying, “President Trump has stood with the American people from day one in this struggle. He has repeatedly called on Democrats in Congress to do the right thing and provide the necessary funding. That is all we are asking for.”