Former NATO spokesperson Jamie Shea, in a statement for klankosova.tv, commented on how the escalating Israel-Iran conflict may affect Kosovo and the Balkans. While he does not foresee NATO directly intervening in the war, Shea emphasized that global tensions are shifting the strategic and political focus of the alliance.
“I don’t see NATO getting involved in the Israel-Iran war, although some allies may assist Israel, as they have in the past, by using their planes and ships to intercept Iranian rockets and drones aimed at Israel,” said Shea.
He explained that the U.S. may use NATO bases in Europe to deploy ships, fighter jets, and refueling aircraft toward the Middle East if needed. Shea also anticipated that Trump will likely use the upcoming NATO summit to rally allies behind his Iran policy.
Though NATO may remain on the sidelines militarily, its infrastructure in Europe will play a logistical role for the U.S., he said.
“I don’t see this having a direct impact on Kosovo or the Western Balkans, except perhaps for increased security at U.S. embassies, companies, and military bases due to potential terror threats sponsored by Iran. The U.S. may also seek overflight permissions or access to bases depending on how the military situation evolves.”
However, Shea warned that Kosovo may be indirectly affected due to the international community’s attention shifting to yet another major global crisis — similar to the one in Ukraine — which could distract from the ongoing Pristina-Belgrade dialogue and regional challenges.
“We’re unlikely to see a broad international coalition form against Iran. It would be politically difficult for European countries to join a war without a direct Iranian threat or provocation. Besides, Israel mainly wants American support for strikes — not European involvement — to retain maximum control.”
Shea also touched on former U.S. President Donald Trump’s past involvement in Kosovo-Serbia talks, acknowledging that while Trump has expressed a desire to return to the negotiating table, the current global geopolitical landscape is far more volatile.
“Trump was proud of his past mediation between Kosovo and Serbia and has said he would like to return to help again. But today’s geopolitical environment is much more confrontational and crisis-ridden than during his first term, so it’s uncertain if he’ll have the time or focus to push forward Balkan issues.”
