NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte delivered important messages ahead of the critical summit to be held in The Hague, Netherlands, on June 24-25. Rutte stated that the alliance members have long shared a common stance that Iran should not develop nuclear weapons and that bold decisions will be made on this matter. Additionally, he announced that NATO is working on a new strategy aimed at strengthening defense capabilities by increasing defense spending up to 5 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Common Stance Against Iran’s Nuclear Program
Rutte emphasized that the allied countries have long been in agreement regarding the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear weapons production. “Leaders will take bold steps to enhance the alliance’s collective defense capabilities,” said Rutte, adding that the plan includes raising defense investments to 5 percent of GDP.
5 Percent Defense Spending Target and Its Scope
The new plan aims to significantly increase NATO members’ defense spending from the current average of 2 percent to up to 5 percent. This increase will cover not only direct military investments but also defense infrastructure, cybersecurity, and the defense industry. The strategy seeks to strengthen the alliance’s technological and logistical capabilities, thereby enhancing deterrence power.
Warning on Security Threats and Differences Among Members
Rutte warned that failure to increase defense spending would weaken NATO’s deterrence power and stressed the importance of standing strong against security threats, particularly those originating from Russia. He stated, “If these steps are not taken, security risks will rise in the coming years and we will face difficulties defending ourselves. If we fail to act, we may have to learn Russian within a few years.”
However, there are differences of opinion among alliance members regarding this target. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that Spain plans to maintain defense spending at 2.1 percent for economic reasons and stated, “We must avoid excessive increases in defense spending to protect social welfare,” expressing disagreement with the 5 percent target.
Peaceful Protests Ahead of The Hague Summit
Prior to the summit in The Hague, approximately 5,000 people participated in a peaceful protest. Demonstrators condemned the recent US airstrikes against Iran and argued that NATO should not support such military interventions. They also criticized the plan to increase defense spending to 5 percent of GDP, calling it unnecessary and economically burdensome.
Expected Outcomes of the Summit
At the upcoming Hague Summit, NATO leaders are expected to officially adopt the new strategy to increase defense spending. However, economic and political differences may hinder full implementation of this target by all members. NATO emphasizes that even countries that cannot meet the target should comply with the established military capacity standards. The alliance’s common stance on Iran’s nuclear program and plans to increase defense budgets are expected to be thoroughly discussed at the summit.
