US Reaffirms Stance on Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and Strait of Hormuz
The United States on Thursday reiterated its firm position that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons and must continue to respect freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The remarks were made by US State Department Hindustani Spokesperson Margaret MacLeod in an interview with ANI, against the backdrop of recent developments in West Asia.
MacLeod stated, "What we are seeing right now is Iran attacking non-military vessels, and the US administration is responding to that. President Trump has a wide range of options, and I cannot preview potential US military action. However, our primary objectives have always been clear: Iran must never possess nuclear weapons, and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be respected."
NATO Summit in Turkiye Reinforces Allied Position on Iran
Speaking about the recently concluded NATO Summit in Turkiye, MacLeod highlighted that the sentiment regarding Iran was also reflected at the transatlantic summit. "Regarding Iran, the allies stated that Iran must never possess nuclear weapons and must not be able to seize control of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital international maritime route," she said.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, with about 20% of the world's petroleum passing through it. Any disruption there could have severe economic consequences, making the US and allied stance particularly significant.
Ukraine Conflict: European and Canadian Support Key
On the Ukraine conflict, MacLeod noted that Kyiv is utilizing assistance from Europe and Canada. "On the issue of Ukraine, the consensus was that NATO would provide support, though the bulk of the burden would be borne by European nations and Canada. We are sending weapons for Ukraine's security, and Ukraine is utilizing this equipment with financial assistance from Europe and Canada. To address the Iran issue, we are cooperating through our bilateral treaties," she explained.
Unity Emphasized at NATO Summit
MacLeod underscored that 'unity' emerged as the central theme at the NATO Summit in Turkiye. Members reaffirmed Article 5 of the Washington Treaty, the foundation of NATO, which stipulates that an attack on one member is an attack on all. "We will stand together and cooperate for our shared security," MacLeod said.
The NATO Summit, which took place in Turkiye, brought together leaders from 32 member nations to discuss security challenges including Iran's nuclear program, maritime security in the Gulf, and ongoing support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
