Trump says he’ll ‘remember’ Korea’s refusal to help with Iran war, hinting at pressure

US President Donald Trump mentioned South Korea's decision not to join the US in its war with Iran, hinting at potential pressure on the ally. During a Fox News interview on Sunday, Trump stated that the US received "very little help from other countries" while clearing mines from the Strait of Hormuz. He expressed frustration, saying, "I think you have to remember that stuff," implying Washington might seek concessions like trade or defense spending in return.

Trump claimed the US spends "billions and billions of dollars" helping NATO and other nations, using South Korea as an example. He suggested that allies who decline to assist Washington could face consequences: "You could say we're going to make a lot of money, because when they're not willing to go for you, you can't be a stupid person and help them."

He also insisted that there are 40,000 US troops in South Korea, a figure far exceeding the actual count of around 28,500. Trump recounted a moment when he asked Korea to help with US military operations against Iran, and they declined, saying, "Well, we'd rather not." He emphasized the need to remember such instances, adding, "I really do." Trump has frequently expressed dissatisfaction with South Korea's lack of support for his military campaign against Iran.