Washington, March 23 (NationPress) NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed his support for the United States military actions against Iran, cautioning that Tehran is "extremely near" to acquiring missile capabilities that could endanger Europe. This statement comes as NATO evaluates reports regarding a long-range missile strike on a joint US-UK military base located in the Indian Ocean.

In an interview on CBS News' "Face the Nation," Rutte noted that NATO has not yet verified the allegations of Iran launching missiles toward Diego Garcia. However, he emphasized the significance of these claims if they turn out to be true.

“Currently, we cannot confirm that, so we are investigating,” he stated. “But if validated, it serves as further evidence that the actions taken by the President here are vital.”

He expressed concern that Iran is approaching the capability to target major cities in Europe. “What we can confirm is that they are very near to possessing that capability,” he remarked, indicating the potential reach of Iranian missiles.

Rutte warned that if Iran combines both nuclear and missile capabilities, it would represent a serious global threat. “Should Iran achieve nuclear status, coupled with missile capabilities, it would pose an existential threat to Israel, the region, Europe, and global stability,” he elaborated.

He endorsed the efforts of the US to diminish Iran's military strength, arguing that procrastination could have dire consequences. Drawing a comparison with North Korea, he stated, “If we delay negotiations for too long, we might miss the opportunity to address the situation effectively.”

These comments surfaced amid rising tensions within the NATO alliance, following President Donald Trump's criticisms of NATO allies for their insufficient support of US military operations, particularly in securing shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

Rutte acknowledged the existing frustrations but assured that cooperative planning among allies is currently taking place. He revealed that 22 nations, including NATO members and partners like Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Gulf states, are collaborating to ensure safe passage in the Strait.

“We are currently addressing three key questions to respond to the President's request, ensuring that we facilitate free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz,” he explained, referring to the planning process regarding “what is needed, when it is needed, and where it is needed.”

He pointed out that operational timelines are still being discussed, with military planners focusing on deployment specifics. “A crucial question remains… the timing,” he added.

In response to worries that US pressure might undermine NATO unity, Rutte asserted that the alliance has historically unified during crises. He referenced the increase in defense spending commitments made under Trump’s administration and ongoing collaborative efforts related to Ukraine.

“I understand the President's frustration with the pace of progress,” he noted, adding that allies require time to prepare due to the confidential nature of initial US actions.

Regarding Ukraine, Rutte defended US diplomatic actions, despite backlash over the easing of restrictions on Russian oil exports. He stated that Washington is juggling multiple priorities while advocating for a negotiated resolution.

“He must navigate these various interests,” Rutte said. “His endeavor to bring the conflict in Ukraine to a successful conclusion is essential.”