Spain has closed its airspace to United States military aircraft involved in operations targeting Iran, in a move that signals a firmer stance beyond its earlier refusal to allow the use of jointly operated military bases.
Announcing the decision on Monday, Defence Minister Margarita Robles said the restriction applies to both airspace and military facilities.
“We don’t authorize 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 development, first reported by Spanish newspaper El Pais, means US military aircraft will now have to reroute around Spanish territory when heading to the Middle East, although emergency exceptions may still apply.
Spain’s Economy Minister, Carlos Cuerpo, said the decision reflects the government’s broader position of non-participation in what it considers a unilateral military campaign.
He stated that the action aligns with Spain’s legal and ethical stance, even as it could place strain on diplomatic relations with the United States.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has consistently criticised the US and Israeli strikes on Iran, describing them as reckless and contrary to international law.
US President Donald Trump had earlier warned of potential trade consequences following Spain’s refusal to grant access to its military bases for operations linked to the conflict.
The airspace closure highlights growing divisions among NATO allies over involvement in the Middle East crisis and underscores Spain’s determination to maintain a neutral posture as tensions escalate.
