Spain has closed its airspace to United States military aircraft involved in operations against Iran, marking a stronger stance against the ongoing conflict and signalling its refusal to support related military actions.
Defence Minister confirmed the decision on Monday, stating that it expands beyond Spain’s earlier move to deny US access to jointly operated military bases. She made it clear that Spain will not permit the use of either its bases or airspace for missions connected to the war.
“We do not authorise the use of military bases or airspace for actions related to the war in Iran,” Robles said while addressing reporters in Madrid.
The restriction means US military aircraft must now reroute around Spanish territory when heading toward the Middle East, potentially complicating logistics. However, exceptions will be made in emergency situations.
The development, first reported by , reflects a broader policy direction by the Spanish government, which has openly opposed the conflict, describing it as lacking legal justification under international law.
Economy Minister reiterated the government’s position in a radio interview, stressing that Spain will not take part in what it views as a unilateral and unlawful war.
“This decision aligns with our stance not to participate in or contribute to a war initiated unilaterally and against international law,” he said.
The move highlights growing divisions among Western allies over the Iran conflict, with Spain seeking to distance itself from military involvement while maintaining its commitments within NATO.
Earlier in March, Prime Minister strongly criticised the military action against Iran, warning that the world is heading into an “unprovoked and increasingly unstable war.”
Speaking in a video shared by , Sánchez expressed concern over escalating tensions following strikes carried out by the United States and Israel, which he said were conducted without broader international consultation.
He emphasised that while many oppose Iran’s government, that does not justify external military intervention outside international legal frameworks.
“It is possible to oppose a regime and still reject an unjustified and dangerous military intervention that violates international law,” Sánchez stated.
He also argued that the strikes lacked proper authorisation, noting the absence of approval from both the US Congress and the United Nations Security Council.
Spain’s latest action underscores its firm opposition to the war and signals a widening rift among allied nations over how to respond to the crisis.
