The Pentagon is considering punitive measures against NATO allies that have not supported U.S. military operations related to Iran. According to Reuters, the proposed measures include the option of temporarily suspending Spain's membership in the alliance. Additionally, the issues of removing representatives from "problematic" countries from influential positions within NATO and reconsidering Washington's position on the Falkland Islands have been raised. Dw.com reports on this matter.
The Spanish government's prohibition on using military bases and airspace within its territory for the purpose of striking Iran has caused sharp dissatisfaction in the White House. Internal Pentagon correspondence notes that while suspending Spain's membership would have little impact on military operations, it would hold significant symbolic weight. However, such a decision would require the consensus of all 32 member states of the alliance.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez responded to these reports during an EU summit, emphasizing Madrid's loyalty to its allies. According to Sánchez, Spain is in favor of absolute cooperation with NATO, but this process must be carried out strictly within the framework of international law. Meanwhile, the German government stated that it sees no reason to change Spain's status within the alliance.
Earlier, reports circulated that the White House had compiled a list of "good" and "bad" NATO allies. Countries that refused to support the Iran campaign were included in the latter list. Additionally, the U.S. is exploring possibilities to revoke the voting rights of countries that do not increase their defense spending to 5 percent of GDP.
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