NATO Chief Says New U.S. Attacks on Iran Were ‘Absolutely Necessary’

Mark Rutte has defended the latest U.S. military strikes on Iran, describing them as “absolutely necessary” following Washington’s renewed offensive against Iranian military targets amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the NATO leaders’ summit in Ankara, Rutte argued that the United States was justified in responding forcefully after Iran allegedly violated a fragile ceasefire through attacks linked to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. He said that when a ceasefire is breached, a strong response is essential to preserve deterrence and regional stability.

The comments came after the United States launched a fresh wave of airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure and revoked a license that had allowed Tehran to continue limited oil exports. U.S. officials said the action followed attacks on three commercial tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, which Washington blamed on Iran. Tehran has denied responsibility and condemned the American strikes as an escalation of the conflict.

According to U.S. military officials, the operation targeted dozens of Iranian military facilities, including air defence systems, missile launch positions, drone installations and naval assets believed to be involved in threatening international shipping. American authorities said the objective was to reduce Iran’s military capabilities and safeguard freedom of navigation through one of the world’s most important energy corridors.

Iran responded by launching missile and drone attacks against U.S.-linked military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait, significantly heightening fears of a broader regional conflict. Air defence systems in both Gulf states were activated to intercept incoming projectiles, while authorities urged residents to remain alert as emergency measures were implemented.

Beyond defending the U.S. action, Rutte sought to reassure allies that Washington remains fully committed to NATO despite recent disagreements within the alliance. He dismissed suggestions that the latest Middle East crisis had weakened transatlantic unity, saying there should be “no doubt” about America’s commitment to the alliance’s collective security.

At the same time, the NATO chief reiterated that European allies and Canada must continue increasing defence spending to share more of the alliance’s security burden. He welcomed recent commitments by member states to raise military investments, describing the trend as both fair and necessary in light of evolving global security threats.

The issue is expected to feature prominently during the NATO summit in Ankara, where leaders are discussing collective defence, support for Ukraine, and growing instability in the Middle East. European governments are also seeking to maintain close cooperation with Washington as the security environment becomes increasingly volatile.

The latest exchange between the United States and Iran has renewed concerns about the possibility of a wider regional conflict, particularly if attacks continue to spread across the Gulf. Analysts warn that prolonged hostilities could disrupt global energy supplies, increase volatility in international markets, and place additional strain on diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring stability in the region.