فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
On Thursday, June 19, 2025, a massive explosion targeted the residence of the Norwegian Ambassador in Tel Aviv, marking the third attack on European diplomatic missions in Israel within a week. This followed missile strikes near the EU delegation and the Dutch embassy. These incidents have raised concerns over possible Iranian involvement amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.
Article 5 of the NATO Treaty: Scope and Limitations
Article 5 of the NATO treaty states that an armed attack against the territory of one or more NATO member states in Europe or North America shall be considered an attack against all members, triggering collective defense measures. However, Israel is not a NATO member, and the attacks occurred on foreign soil targeting diplomatic missions, which are not considered part of NATO members’ territories under Article 5.
NATO’s Current Position
To date, NATO has not indicated any intention to invoke Article 5 in response to these attacks. On the contrary, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has called for de-escalation and diplomatic solutions rather than military escalation.
Legal and Political Considerations
- Territorial Scope: Article 5 applies strictly to attacks on member states’ territories, not on diplomatic missions abroad.
- Historical Precedent: The only invocation of Article 5 was after the 9/11 attacks on U.S. soil, not for attacks on diplomatic premises.
- Political Implications: Invoking Article 5 could escalate the conflict into direct military engagement with Iran, contradicting international calls for restraint.
Damage and Implications
The attacks caused material damage to diplomatic premises, though no injuries were reported. Protection of diplomatic missions falls under the host countries’ responsibilities, and Article 5 does not extend to guaranteeing their security abroad. Member states may independently enhance their security measures.
Comparison: 9/11 Attacks vs. Current Situation
| Aspect | 9/11 Attacks (2001) | Current Situation (June 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | United States (NATO territory) | Israel (Non-NATO territory) |
| Nature of Attack | Terrorist attacks on U.S. soil | Attacks on diplomatic missions (missiles, grenade) |
| NATO Response | Article 5 invoked, military action | No Article 5 invocation, focus on de-escalation |
| Outcome | Military operations, international coalition | Diplomatic condemnation, no military escalation |
Conclusion
Given the legal framework, historical precedent, and NATO’s current stance, it is highly unlikely that Article 5 will be invoked in response to the attacks on European diplomatic missions in Israel. NATO’s response is expected to remain diplomatic, with individual member states managing their own security measures. Observers will continue monitoring developments, especially considering potential U.S. involvement.
Additional Military Note
Iran’s ballistic missile arsenal is estimated between 1,300 and 1,600 as of June 18, 2025, but only about 500 are fueled and ready, following the destruction of a key missile fuel shipment at Rajaee port in April, according to military experts.
