NATO Supports Strikes on Iran and Calls for Strait of Hormuz to Remain Open

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated on Wednesday that during upcoming meetings in Ankara, the alliance will reaffirm the necessity of keeping the Strait of Hormuz completely open to international maritime traffic. He described the recent US military strikes against Iranian targets as "highly necessary" amid escalating attacks on commercial vessels.

Speaking on the sidelines of the NATO summit, Rutte expressed his expectation that member states' leaders will once again emphasize the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage for global oil and gas transport. This follows a series of attacks targeting commercial ships, which have raised widespread concerns about the security of global energy supplies.

The NATO chief characterized the recent US strikes on Iranian sites as "highly necessary," marking the alliance leadership’s first clear stance on these military operations. These strikes were conducted in response to attacks on ships in the strait, according to Reuters.

Regarding the US position within NATO, Rutte downplayed suggestions of significant disagreements between Washington and its allies over Iran policy. He indicated that any US reservations about the stances of certain member countries are "limited to isolated cases," affirming that the United States remains committed to joint action within the alliance.

Rutte also emphasized that US President Joe Biden is "fully committed to NATO," aiming to dispel doubts raised in recent months about the future of the US-NATO relationship. He confirmed that cooperation between the two sides remains strong.

These remarks come amid an unprecedented escalation in the region, following a new wave of US strikes on Iranian military sites. Tehran responded with attacks targeting US positions and vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, amid mutual accusations of violating a memorandum of understanding and ceasefire agreements.

The issue of the Strait of Hormuz holds particular priority for NATO countries due to the strategic importance of this maritime corridor, through which approximately one-fifth of global oil trade passes. NATO members view any disruption to navigation there as a direct threat to energy security and the global economy.

Rutte’s statements reflect a growing trend within NATO to support efforts aimed at safeguarding international navigation while maintaining political and military pressure on Iran. This occurs alongside ongoing diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran despite the heightened military tensions.