"Most people know about the centerpiece of NATO's treaty, Article 5, which states, 'An armed attack against one or more of them in Europe or North America shall be considered an attack against them all.' But they tend to ignore the words in the middle of that sentence—an armed attack in Europe or North America."
"In case anyone detects ambiguity in this clause, Article 6, though almost never cited, states the matter explicitly: For the purpose of Article 5, an armed attack on one or more of the Parties is deemed to include an armed attack on the territory of any of the Parties in Europe or North America."
"In other words, the NATO allies have no obligation to aid us (nor do we have any obligation to aid them) in a war that takes place outside the areas of the treaty's jurisdiction—in other words, that occurs in or over, for example, Iran or the Strait of Hormuz."
NATO's treaty, particularly Article 5, states that an armed attack against a member is considered an attack on all, but only within Europe or North America. Article 6 clarifies that obligations do not extend to conflicts outside these territories. Therefore, NATO allies are not required to assist in wars occurring in regions like Iran or the Strait of Hormuz. This understanding is crucial for comprehending the limitations of NATO's collective defense commitments.
Read at Slate Magazine
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