Iran has sharply criticized NATO following comments by Secretary General Mark Rutte acknowledging that allied infrastructure played a role in supporting the United States during its military campaign against Iran. Tehran described the remarks as evidence of the alliance’s direct involvement in what it called an unlawful war against a sovereign nation.
Rutte stated that hundreds of American aircraft operated from bases in Italy as part of Operation “Epic Fury,” while Romania also provided logistical assistance by adjusting civilian air traffic to accommodate military tanker operations. His comments came after US President Donald Trump expressed disappointment with NATO members that failed to openly support Washington during the conflict.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei condemned the statements, arguing that they amounted to an admission of NATO’s active complicity and violated fundamental principles of international law and the United Nations Charter. Tehran maintains that any external support for military actions against Iran undermines regional stability and international norms.
Italy, however, quickly rejected interpretations suggesting direct participation in combat operations. The Italian Defense Ministry clarified that only technical and logistical flights were authorized under long-standing agreements with the United States and denied involvement in offensive military missions.
The episode highlights growing tensions between Iran and Western powers while exposing divisions within NATO over military engagement in the Middle East. It also raises broader questions about alliance responsibilities, the use of shared military infrastructure, and the diplomatic consequences of supporting US-led operations in volatile regions.
