NATO chief Rutte backs US 'firm response' after Iran attacks ships

The United States launched a series of airstrikes against more than 80 targets in southern Iran, retaliating for Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte publicly endorsed the operation, calling it "absolutely necessary" and urging a firm international response.

The attack

US Central Command (Centcom) reported that over 60 small boats belonging to Iran's Revolutionary Guard were destroyed to "degrade Iran's ability to continue attacking international commerce" in the strategic waterway. The strikes targeted coastal positions and naval assets.

Reactions

• Rutte's support: At a NATO summit, Rutte said: "When there is a ceasefire and Iran is basically violating it... it is totally crucial that the United States reacts firmly." Source: infobae
• Iran's condemnation: Tehran called the strikes a "clear violation" of the June 17 Memorandum of Understanding that established a permanent ceasefire, and warned of "consequences." Source: elmundoes
• Centcom: The military command stated the operation aimed to protect commercial shipping after Iran's previous attacks on three merchant vessels. Source: infobae

The incident marks a significant escalation in US-Iran tensions despite the existing ceasefire framework.