Spain Closes Airspace to US Planes Involved in Iran War
Spain has taken a stronger stance against the war in Iran by shutting its airspace to US military aircraft involved in the war.
Defence Minister Margarita Robles confirmed the decision, and made it clear that Spain is drawing a firm line. “We don’t authorize either the use of military bases or the use of airspace for actions related to the war in Iran,” she said.
The decision builds on an earlier refusal to allow the US to use joint military bases at Rota and Morón in southern Spain. Together, the measures mean American planes linked to operations in Iran will now have to reroute around Spanish territory, unless there is an emergency.
Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said the goal is to avoid making the situation worse, stressing that Spain does not want to contribute to further escalation.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been one of the most outspoken critics of the US and Israeli strikes on Iran, repeatedly calling them “reckless” and “illegal”. He has also made it clear that Madrid sees the conflict as unlawful, saying that Spain is a country that does not want to be involved in such wars.
The government’s position has already caused friction with the US. President Donald Trump has previously threatened trade measures against Spain after it blocked access to its bases for operations tied to the war.
Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo reinforced the government’s stance, saying: “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.”
The airspace closure is expected to affect US military logistics across Europe. Aircraft stationed in places like the UK will now need to take longer routes, avoiding Spanish airspace when heading towards the Middle East.
Despite the restrictions, Spain has said exceptions would be made in emergency situations. Routine military transport and logistical support under existing agreements are also still allowed.
