Spain closes airspace to US planes involved in Iran war, defence minister says | Reuters
AI Analysis
Spain has closed its airspace to U.S. military planes involved in operations against Iran, furthering its stance against participating in the conflict. This decision aligns with Spain's refusal to allow the use of its military bases for the same purpose.
Key Takeaways
- Spain closes airspace to U.S. planes involved in Iran conflict.
- Spain previously denied use of jointly-operated military bases.
- Decision reflects Spain's opposition to the U.S. and Israeli actions in Iran.
- Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez criticizes the attacks as illegal.
- President Trump threatens trade repercussions against Spain.
Why It Matters
Spain's decision to restrict airspace access impacts U.S. military logistics and highlights growing international dissent against unilateral military actions. This move could strain U.S.-Spain relations and influence NATO dynamics, especially regarding Middle Eastern operations.
Spain closes airspace to US planes involved in Iran war, defence minister says | Reuters
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MADRID, March 30 (Reuters) - Spain has closed its airspace to U.S. planes involved in attacks on Iran, a step beyond its previous denial of use of jointly-operated military bases, Defence Minister Margarita Robles said on Monday.
"We don't authorize either the use of military bases or the use of airspace for actions related to the war in Iran," she told reporters in Madrid.
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Spanish newspaper El Pais had first reported the news on Monday, citing military sources.
Spain's Defense Minister Margarita Robles arrives at the informal EU Defence Ministers' meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark, August 29, 2025. Ritzau Scanpix/Thomas Traasdahl via REUTERS Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab
The closure of the airspace forces military planes to bypass NATO member Spain en route to their targets in the Middle East, but it does not include emergency situations, El Pais added.
"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," Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said during an interview with radio Cadena Ser when asked if the decision to close Spain's airspace could worsen relations with the United States.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has been one of the most vocal opponents of the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, describing them as reckless and illegal.
President Donald Trump has threatened to cut trade with Madrid for denying the U.S. use of Spain's bases in the war.
Reporting by Paolo Laudani and Emma Pinedo; additional reporting by Victoria Waldersee; editing by Charlie Devereux and Gareth Jones
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