Spain, a Nato member, has closed its airspace to U.S. military aircraft involved in operations linked to the war in Iran, Defence Minister Margarita Robles said on Monday (30).
“We don’t authorise either the use of military bases or the use of airspace for actions related to the war in Iran,” Robles told reporters in Madrid.
The move expands Spain’s earlier decision to deny the United States access to jointly operated military bases, including Rota and Morón.
According to reports by Spanish newspaper El Pais, the restriction will force military aircraft to bypass Spain when travelling to the Middle East, although exceptions will be made in emergency situations.
Military sources also said the restriction applies to U.S. aircraft stationed in third countries such as France and the United Kingdom.
Spain’s Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said the decision reflects the government’s broader stance against the conflict.
“This decision is part of the decision already made by the Spanish government not to participate in or contribute to a war which was initiated unilaterally and against international law,” he said.
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been among the most vocal critics of the U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, describing them as “reckless and illegal.”
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of potential economic consequences, including the possibility of cutting trade ties with Spain over the decision. (NewsWire)