Spain and US: Tensions Rise Over Iran War and Airspace Closure

The United States Administration, under the presidency of Donald Trump, has stated that it does not require the assistance of Spain or any other country in the military operation in Iran, known as 'Epic Fury'. This statement came in response to the Spanish government's decision to close its airspace to US aircraft involved in the aforementioned operation. A Trump administration official stated that the United States Armed Forces are meeting or exceeding all their objectives.

The Spanish government, led by Pedro Sánchez, had previously prohibited the use of the military bases of Rota and Morón for this operation. This measure, along with the closure of airspace, reflects Spain's position against the war in Iran, considering it illegal and unjust, according to government sources.

The Spanish government, since the beginning of the war, has maintained a firm position by prohibiting the use of the military bases of Rota and Morón, which are jointly used with the United States. In addition, the closure of Spanish airspace to US flights participating in the military operation in Iran was ordered. This restriction, confirmed by Defense sources and published by media such as El País, only affects military air operations, without impacting commercial flights.

Defense Minister Margarita Robles emphasized that Spain's position was communicated 'very clearly' to the United States from the beginning of the operation, reaffirming the refusal to authorize the use of bases and airspace for warlike actions in Iran.

Spain's decision not to support the military operation in Iran and to restrict access to its facilities and airspace has generated significant tensions between both governments. This position has provoked direct criticism from then-US President Donald Trump, who went so far as to call Spain a 'terrible' partner. Trump even considered the possibility of imposing trade sanctions and an embargo against Spain, even though Spanish trade policy is integrated within the framework of the European Union (EU).

Spain's refusal to use the bases, regulated in a bilateral agreement, has exacerbated the differences between the two countries.