Published June 24th, 2026 - 05:31 GMT
Highlights
Rutte warned of the global consequences of a nuclear-armed Iran, describing the country as an “exporter of chaos” and “an exporter of terrorism.”
ALBAWABA- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has expressed strong support for President Donald Trump and his military campaign targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, saying the US president is “doing exactly what is needed” to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.In an interview with Fox News, Rutte warned of the global consequences of a nuclear-armed Iran, describing the country as an “exporter of chaos” and “an exporter of terrorism.”“Could you imagine if Iran would get its hands on a nuclear weapon? It would be devastating for the region. It would be devastating for the whole world,” Rutte said, adding: “I am completely behind him on this.”His remarks come in the aftermath of Operation Epic Fury, a major US-Israeli military campaign launched earlier this year that targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, ballistic missile infrastructure, air defence systems, naval assets, and military production sites.The operation reportedly dealt a significant blow to Iran’s regional military capabilities and followed earlier military actions, including Operation Midnight Hammer, amid growing concerns over Tehran’s advancing nuclear programme and support for allied armed groups across the Middle East.Iran subsequently responded with missile and drone attacks against Israeli, US, and US assets in the Gulf, prompting a ceasefire and renewed diplomatic efforts focused on maritime security, sanctions relief, and nuclear-related negotiations.Rutte’s endorsement highlights a broad transatlantic consensus on preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, a long-standing security objective shared by NATO members and the United States.He said weakening Iran’s military capabilities would strengthen security in Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, while also praising Trump’s leadership for encouraging higher defence spending among NATO allies.However, Rutte clarified that the military campaign was not a formal NATO operation but a US-led initiative carried out in partnership with Israel. He noted that several European allies provided logistical support, including access to military bases used by hundreds of US aircraft, while acknowledging differences among allies regarding direct military participation and restrictions on the use of their territories.Rutte sought to frame those differences as operational rather than strategic, arguing that most allies ultimately viewed the action as necessary, particularly after Iran’s retaliatory attacks highlighted the broader regional threat.His comments come as diplomatic efforts continue following a fragile ceasefire and ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran.Rutte has described the emerging diplomatic framework as an opportunity to ensure Iran never acquires nuclear weapons, while also welcoming efforts to secure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
