Spain has closed its airspace to US military aircraft involved in operations related to the Iran conflict, Defence Minister Margarita Robles has announced.
“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 move expands on Spain’s earlier decision to deny the United States access to jointly operated military bases for operations linked to the conflict.
According to reports, the restriction will force US military aircraft to avoid Spanish airspace when heading toward the Middle East, although exceptions may be made in emergency situations.
Spain’s Economy Minister, Carlos Cuerpo, said the decision aligns with the government’s stance against the war.
“This decision is part of the position already taken by the Spanish government not to participate in or contribute to a war which was initiated unilaterally and against international law,” he said.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been a vocal critic of the US and Israeli military actions, describing them as reckless and unlawful.
The development could further strain relations between Spain and the United States, after Donald Trump reportedly threatened to cut trade ties with Madrid over its refusal to support military operations.
