What is the core purpose of Article 5 of the NATO treaty?

• A. Collective defense obligates member states to aid an attacked member
• B. A treaty on monetary union
• C. A framework for cyber operations coordination
• D. A non-aggression pact

Answer: (A)

Article 5 centers on a mutual defense commitment: an armed attack against one member is treated as an attack against all, and each member agrees to come to the aid of the attacked member, by taking whatever action it deems necessary, including the use of armed force. This arrangement creates a strong deterrent because potential aggressors know that a single hit to one ally could trigger a broad, united response from the entire alliance. It’s the mechanism that gives NATO its collective security bite and explains why member states participate as a bloc. It isn’t about a monetary union or a simple non-aggression pledge. While cyber threats can be addressed under Article 5 if they amount to an armed attack, the core aim is collective defense. Historically, Article 5 has been invoked only once, after the 9/11 attacks, underscoring its role as a real commitment to mutual protection.