NATO leader cooperates with LGBTQ


(MENAFN) In a bold declaration, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg asserted the alliance's commitment to defending the rights of LGBTQ individuals on Friday, aligning with numerous Western officials, institutions, and organizations in commemorating the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).

Stoltenberg took to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to express NATO's stance, emphasizing the organization's core mission to safeguard the freedoms and peace of its 32 member nations. "On the International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia & Transphobia, and every day: all love is equal. LGBTQ+ people deserve respect & dignity, and I am proud to call myself your ally," he posted.

However, despite the Secretary General's affirmation, the response to his statement was predominantly negative. Criticism flooded in, questioning the relevance of NATO's stance on LGBTQ rights within the context of a military alliance focused on mutual defense. Some users drew attention to NATO's history, highlighting its involvement in offensive military actions, such as the wars against Yugoslavia in 1999 and Libya in 2011, as well as its lengthy engagement in Afghanistan.

Among the critical responses, one user expressed increased support for Russia, while another speculated whether Stoltenberg's social media account had been compromised. Additionally, accusations of "pinkwashing war crimes and warmongering" surfaced, indicating a belief that Stoltenberg's support for LGBTQ rights was being used to divert attention from NATO's alleged misconduct.

Despite the backlash, Stoltenberg's declaration underscores NATO's evolving stance on social issues and its recognition of the importance of inclusivity within its member states. However, the contentious reception serves as a reminder of the complex intersection between military alliances and social justice advocacy.

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