Defense Minister Margarita Robles affirmed on 30/3 that Spain does not permit the use of its military bases or airspace for any actions related to the conflict in the Middle East. This decision is part of Madrid's stance not to participate in or support a war it considers "unilaterally initiated and contrary to international law," according to Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo.

The airspace closure will force US military aircraft to alter their routes to the Middle East, complicating Washington's operational and logistical activities, El Pais newspaper reported, citing defense sources. However, aircraft in emergency situations are still permitted to transit or land in Spain.

A US B-52H aircraft refuels during an attack operation on Iran on 20/3. *Photo: USAF*

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has been one of the Western leaders most strongly opposing the US-Israel attacks on Iran, calling them "reckless and unlawful" actions. This stance has increased tensions in relations between Madrid and Washington. Spain has consistently refused to allow the US to use bases on its territory, including the Rota naval base and Moron air base, for such operations. Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares emphasized that Spanish sovereign facilities will not be used for any operations outside NATO treaties or inconsistent with the United Nations Charter.

US President Donald Trump previously criticized Madrid's decision as "very bad", and threatened to cut all trade relations to exert pressure. He also affirmed that the US military would continue to use bases in Spain and "no one has the right to stop them."

Locations of two US bases in Spain. *Graphic: CSIS*

Disagreements over defense spending further exacerbated tensions between the two NATO allies. The Spanish government refused to increase its defense budget to 5% of GDP as requested by Trump, a move that displeased Washington.

US officials have not yet commented on the information.

Thanh Danh (According to AFP, Reuters)