During a meeting at the Oval Office, U.S. President Donald Trump awkwardly referenced Pearl Harbor while discussing surprise attacks on Iran with Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

Trump explained the U.S. had not informed allies about the February 28 strikes to maintain surprise, citing the success of the operation.

He praised Japan for “stepping up” to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, despite Takaichi noting Japan had no plans to deploy naval vessels under its pacifist constitution.

Prior to the meeting, Japan and several European countries had expressed readiness to ensure safe passage through the Strait, but with no specific U.S. request, CNBC has reported.

The remarks came amid Trump’s criticism of NATO allies, who reiterated that they would not participate militarily in the conflict.