05.03.2026 14:20
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated regarding the downing of an Iranian missile in Turkey, "Article 5 is not in effect here and no one is talking about it. The most important point is that our adversaries must have seen how strong and vigilant NATO is yesterday. NATO is very strong and very vigilant. The downing of a missile in Turkey was a serious incident."
ATO Secretary General Mark Rutte made a statement regarding the Iranian ballistic missile shot down in Turkish airspace.
Rutte said, "We condemn this clearly. As you know, NATO air missile defense was able to neutralize this. This is also clear evidence that we will defend every inch of NATO territory. Our military is constantly monitoring this. But of course, this was a serious situation and must be condemned."
"ARTICLE 5 IS NOT IN EFFECT HERE"
Speaking about NATO's collective defense rule, Article 5, Rutte stated, "Article 5 is not in effect here and no one is talking about it. The most important point is that our adversaries must have seen how strong and vigilant NATO is yesterday. NATO is very strong and very vigilant," he said.
"IRAN HAD BECOME A THREAT TO EUROPE AS WELL"
In his statement, Rutte also addressed Iran's military program. He argued that Iran was approaching becoming a potential threat to Europe, especially due to its missile and nuclear capabilities, and noted that this situation raised serious security concerns for Western allies.
MESSAGE OF SUPPORT FOR TRUMP
The NATO Secretary General also expressed support for the recent moves by the U.S. against Iran. Rutte stated that they support Donald Trump's steps targeting Iran's nuclear and missile capabilities.
Rutte emphasized that Iran should not pose a threat in the future, saying, "We must ensure that Iran will no longer pose a threat."
NATO IS CLOSELY MONITORING DEVELOPMENTS
Rutte's statements revealed that NATO is closely monitoring developments due to the missile incident in Turkey and the increasing tensions with Iran. Alliance officials state that assessments are ongoing to ensure the security of allied countries.
WHAT IS ARTICLE 5?
The most important article of the North Atlantic Treaty, which forms the basis of NATO, is Article 5. If a NATO member country is attacked, all members will provide military support to it. In this way, the attacked country is not left alone.