US Strikes Iran Again; NATO Chief: "Absolutely Necessary"

US-Iran War Key News

(CNA Ankara, July 8, 2024, Foreign News) North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Secretary General Mark Rutte said today that the new wave of attacks launched by the United States against Iran is "absolutely necessary."

Reuters reported that the US military launched another round of airstrikes against Iran yesterday and revoked permission for Iran to sell oil in response to missile attacks on three oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. This latest development puts further pressure on the already fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran.

Rutte told reporters in Ankara, the capital of Turkey, today, before the NATO summit: "With a ceasefire agreement in place, Iran has basically violated the ceasefire. I think a strong response from the United States is absolutely crucial."

After disagreements between US President Donald Trump and NATO allies over the Iran war and the issue of Greenland, European leaders hope to use this summit to persuade Trump to renew his commitment to NATO.

Rutte stated that the US commitment to NATO is beyond doubt and that NATO is also committed to ensuring US security.

He added: "But at the same time, it is also expected that Europe and Canada will match the US in military spending. I think this is completely reasonable."

He also said: "The good news is that this is the biggest achievement today. It is a major setback for (Russian President) Putin and a victory for President Trump, because Europe and Canada are indeed doing this." (Compiled by Tsai Chia-min) 0708

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