Spain Closes Airspace To US Military Planes Involved In Attacks On Iran

Spain closes airspace to US military planes involved in attacks on Iran Spain has closed its airspace to United States military aircraft involved in attacks on Iran, Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles has announced, marking a significant escalation of Madrid’s opposition to the conflict.

The move, confirmed by Defence Minister Robles on Monday extends Spain’s earlier refusal to allow the US to use jointly operated military bases on Spanish soil for operations linked to the Iran war. Robles said Spain will not authorize the use of its airspace or its military bases for actions related to the war in Iran, reinforcing a policy it has communicated to the US military since the conflict began. The restriction forces US military aircraft to bypass Spanish airspace when heading to targets in the Middle East, although emergency exceptions are reportedly in place. The decision was first reported by Spanish newspaper El Pais, citing military sources, and confirmed by the Defence Ministry.

Robles described the war in Iran as “profoundly illegal and profoundly unjust” and reiterated Spain’s stance that it would not facilitate military operations it deems unlawful. Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said the move is part of Spain’s broader decision not to participate in or contribute to a conflict initiated unilaterally and contrary to international law. Spain’s action follows its earlier denial of permission for US use of the Rota and Morón military bases in southern Spain for attacks on Iran, a stance that has strained relations with Washington. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been an outspoken critic of the US and Israeli military campaign against Iran, describing the operations as reckless and contrary to international law. According to reports, the refusal to allow base access or airspace use has “complicated” US military logistics, forcing some aircraft to alter routes and refueling arrangements. Former US President Donald Trump has threatened measures, including trade repercussions, in response to Spain’s refusal to cooperate, though details on any formal actions remain unconfirmed. The airspace closure highlights growing diplomatic tension between Spain and the United States amid the wider Middle East conflict, with Madrid positioning itself as a vocal critic of the war and underscoring its commitment to international law.