Norwegian Foreign Minister: NATO countries' desire to participate in war with Iran is "very limited"

The Norwegian Foreign Minister responded to U.S. President Donald Trump's criticism regarding Europe's "zero" support in the conflict with Iran.

"NATO is a defensive alliance, not an offensive one," said Espen Barth Eide on Euronews' morning program "Europe Today."

According to Eide, NATO members are focused on protecting key global trade routes, including keeping the Strait of Hormuz open.

"NATO countries are taking certain actions, but not as a party to the conflict," he emphasized.

Trump has repeatedly criticized NATO allies for not supporting Washington in the war with Iran. Earlier this month, he raised the issue again during a meeting at the White House with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

Eide stated that there has been neither prior preparation nor consensus within the alliance. As a result, NATO countries have "very limited desire" to participate in this war.

He noted that while both the U.S. and Iran have reasons to end the conflict, "the positions of the parties are widely divergent," and negotiations are complicated by mutually exclusive demands.

On Monday, Trump stated that the United States would maintain the blockade of Iranian ports until Tehran agrees to a peace agreement.

However, Eide pointed to signs of "some progress," noting that the conflict affects the entire world.

"This is not just a problem for two sides; it impacts the entire global economy," he said.

Addressing European diplomacy advocating for the establishment of a Palestinian state, Eide reiterated support for a two-state solution based on long-standing UN principles. However, he acknowledged that such an outcome is "not around the corner."

He added that a two-state solution also serves Israel's interests, calling it "the only viable solution for achieving real peace in a very troubled region."

Norway, along with Spain and Ireland, recognized the state of Palestine in 2024.