Mark Rutte, Secretary General of NATO, stated that the alliance is not “ignoring the risk” and that allies are acting quickly to ensure necessary budgets for their armed forces.
Regarding the US-Israel operations against Iran, Rutte said: “When it came time to provide logistical and other support that the United States needed in Iran, some allies reacted a bit slowly, at least to tell the truth. They were also somewhat surprised. To maintain the element of surprise for the initial strikes, President Trump decided not to inform allies beforehand.”
He added: “But what I see across Europe today is that allies are offering massive support. Almost without exception, allies are doing everything the United States requests. They have listened and are responding to President Trump’s demands.”
Rutte also praised the United Kingdom for “leading a coalition of countries” to ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as evidence of a “change in mindset” among NATO members.
