NATO has issued a statement clarifying recent comments made by Secretary General Mark Rutte regarding increased aircraft activity. Rutte had referenced 500 US aircraft departing from Italian bases and an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 flights across Europe. A NATO spokesperson, Allison Hart, addressed these statements, providing further context without detailing specifics. The comments stemmed from discussions surrounding potential conflict involving Iran and heightened military preparedness. While acknowledging increased flight activity, NATO did not confirm the exact numbers cited by Rutte. The clarification aims to address potential misinterpretations and provide transparency regarding ongoing military movements within the alliance. The increased activity is part of routine operations and preparedness measures, according to NATO.