Spain has closed its airspace to U.S. military aircraft involved in attacks on Iran, escalating tensions among Western allies over the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Defence Minister Margarita Robles said Madrid would not authorize the use of its airspace or jointly operated military bases for operations related to the war.
The decision forces U.S. military aircraft to reroute around Spanish territory when traveling to the Middle East, although exceptions may apply in emergency situations.
Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said the move reflects Spain’s position against what it considers a unilateral war conducted “against international law,” acknowledging it could strain relations with Washington.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been a vocal critic of U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran, describing them as reckless and illegal.
U.S. President Donald Trump has previously threatened trade measures against Madrid following its refusal to allow the use of Spanish bases for military operations tied to the conflict.
The move underscores growing divisions within NATO allies and signals Spain’s determination to maintain a neutral stance as the crisis deepens.
