Spain has officially closed its airspace to United States military aircraft participating in strikes against Iran. Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles confirmed the decision on March 30, stating that Madrid will not allow the use of its military bases or airspace for any actions related to the conflict in Iran. Reports Dw.com.
Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo explained that this measure aligns with the Spanish government's commitment to avoid participating in a war initiated unilaterally and in violation of international law. The ban prevents American fighter jets and refueling planes from using the Rota and Morón de la Frontera bases in southern Spain. Furthermore, it restricts access for US aircraft stationed in third countries, such as the United Kingdom and France, allowing flights or landings only in extreme emergencies.
Despite these restrictions, Spain continues to fulfill other obligations under its bilateral agreement with the United States. Madrid still provides logistical support for approximately 80,000 American troops stationed across Europe. Additionally, an air traffic control center in Seville offers navigational assistance to US bombers flying from Missouri, provided they do not enter Spanish airspace.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been a vocal critic of the US and Israeli military operations against Iran, describing them as reckless and illegal. He emphasized that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East costs Spain around 100 billion euros every month. In response to Madrid's stance, US President Donald Trump has threatened to completely sever trade relations with Spain.
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