NATO allies need to work to deescalate situation in Middle East, says Rutte

STOCKHOLM, June 13 (Reuters) - It is crucial for NATO allies, including the United States, to work to deescalate the situation in the Middle East, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said on Friday.

"This was a unilateral action by Israel. So I think it is crucial for many allies, including the United States, to work as we speak to deescalate," said Rutte, speaking at a joint press conference with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Stockholm. I know they're doing that. And I think that is now the first order of the day."