NATO Chief Rutte: Alliance Has No Operations Against Iran, Putin Unlikely to Seek Peace
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte asserted on Wednesday that the alliance has no active operations directed against Iran. Rutte stated that Russia’s actions against Ukraine underscore NATO’s readiness to defend its member states, declaring, “If the Russians intend to attack any of the alliance members, we are prepared and will defend every inch of our territory.”
Rutte claimed there is no immediate threat to the alliance’s territory but reiterated NATO’s commitment to self-defense. He noted Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian cities and highlighted ongoing efforts to supply Ukraine with interceptor missiles, observing that Ukraine is in a stronger military position and is targeting Russian territory.
Addressing Iran’s nuclear program, Rutte alleged that Iran’s nuclear capabilities pose a threat to Europe, and he credited the U.S. President with success in addressing these capabilities. He clarified that NATO currently has no operations concerning Iran, as the country falls outside NATO’s operational scope, with the alliance’s focus remaining on Europe and the North Atlantic.
The NATO Secretary General also called for Europe to be capable of countering the Houthis in the Red Sea, noting a consensus among European nations on the importance of restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, with some countries reportedly participating in covert missions in the region. He reiterated NATO’s role in protecting the United States and Canada, akin to its defense of Europe.
Rutte further suggested that only the U.S. President is capable of halting the conflict in Ukraine. While expressing hope for a negotiated resolution, Rutte indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin does not appear to be ready for peace.
