NATO calls for Europe to stay united on action against Iran
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte (photo: Getty Images)
NATO expects full unity from its European allies regarding the US military campaign against Iran and support for efforts to prevent a nuclear threat, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated.
NATO's stance on Iran
The report says that Rutte stressed the importance of consolidating around President Donald Trump's actions, despite initial hesitation from some European countries.
He noted that a nuclear-armed Iran would pose a direct threat not only to Israel but also to Europe and global stability.
"What I know is that we always come together," the NATO chief said.
He added that delays from European partners were due to their not being involved in the initial planning, to preserve the element of surprise in US-Israeli strikes.
Criticism from Trump
Earlier, President Trump criticized allies on Truth Social, calling NATO a "paper tiger" for its reluctance to help secure the Strait of Hormuz.
Mark Rutte, in turn, called for an understanding of the US leader's position.
"He's doing this to make the whole world safe," the secretary general noted.
Comparison with North Korea
The Alliance also drew parallels with efforts to contain North Korea.
Officials noted that prolonged negotiations could result in missing the window to prevent an adversary from acquiring nuclear capabilities.
Allies refused to help Trump
Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz escalated after Iranian forces effectively blocked the strategic route, carrying out a series of attacks on civilian vessels and energy infrastructure. This triggered a strong reaction from global leaders, who issued ultimatums to Tehran.
At the same time, US President Donald Trump demanded that allies provide naval forces to help forcibly reopen the Strait, but the UK and Germany officially declined.
Despite the lack of direct military support from key partners, Washington says the number of ships passing through the Strait is gradually increasing.
Meanwhile, France and Italy have launched behind-the-scenes talks with Iran aimed at securing guarantees for the safe passage of tankers and restoring stable energy supplies to Europe without direct military confrontation.
