Rutte says NATO allies were slow to back US in Iran war as tensions mount

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte didn't hold back this week when asked about the alliance's response to President Donald Trump's military action in Iran. Speaking Thursday, Rutte said member countries were 'a bit slow, to say the least' in offering support, though he acknowledged many weren't aware the U.S. was about to launch what has become an ongoing conflict. The remarks highlight growing unease among allies about how decisions are being made - and how quickly others are expected to fall in line.

Rutte's criticism was aimed at NATO members, not the U.S. directly, but the tension is clear. The alliance has long relied on coordination and consensus, but recent events suggest that model is under strain. While Rutte stopped short of blaming any one country, his comment underscores a broader concern: that the U.S. is acting unilaterally and dragging partners into conflicts without clear planning or consultation.

When pressed on whether Trump might pull the U.S. out of NATO - a recurring fear since his first term - Rutte deflected with humor, circling back to a comment he made months ago when he accidentally referred to Trump as 'daddy.' The joke landed awkwardly, but it revealed how carefully he's navigating the political minefield of criticizing a powerful ally's leader without breaking diplomatic protocol.

Meanwhile, Trump's threats to 'destroy a whole civilization' in Iran have reignited calls for the 25th Amendment to be invoked, with critics arguing he's unfit for office. While the push has drawn support from some Democrats and even a few Republicans, legal and political experts widely agree it's unlikely to gain traction. The amendment requires broad consensus among top officials, and so far, no serious effort has advanced beyond public statements.

Some public figures are pushing back hard against the idea. Broadcaster Stephen A. Smith, usually known for sports commentary, made headlines by telling politicians to 'stop it' with the 25th Amendment talk. 'We need a new president,' he said, 'but not like this.' His point - echoed by others - is that removing a president through constitutional mechanisms should be a last resort, not a substitute for electoral accountability.

On the domestic front, signs are emerging that Trump's support may be softening. A new analysis suggests Latino voters, who gave him a stronger-than-expected share in 2024, are now rethinking their backing. Economic concerns, including losses in home equity and retirement savings tied to market volatility, are cited as key reasons. The shift, if it holds, could reshape the political landscape heading into 2028.

For now, the focus remains on how NATO adapts to an unpredictable U.S. presidency and how political leaders respond to rising global risks. Rutte's comments may have been understated, but they carry weight: in a moment of crisis, hesitation can be as consequential as action.