Spain Closes Airspace to U.S. Military Flights Linked to Iran Attacks
Spain has closed its airspace to U.S. aircraft involved in military operations against Iran, a move that underscores growing divisions among Western allies over the escalating conflict.
Defence Minister Margarita Robles confirmed that Spain will not allow American forces to use its territory or facilities for actions connected to the war.
“We will not authorise the use of Morón and Rota for any acts related to the war in Iran,” Robles said, referring to two key military bases in southern Spain jointly operated by Spanish and U.S. forces. She added that Madrid had made its position clear to Washington from the outset of the conflict.
Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said the decision was aimed at preventing further escalation in the Middle East.
“Our goal is not to do anything that could encourage an escalation in this war,” Albares said.
Tensions with Washington
The move comes amid mounting tensions between Madrid and Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump has previously threatened to impose a full trade embargo on Spain in response to its opposition to the U.S.- and Israel-led military campaign against Iran.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been one of the most outspoken critics of the operation since the conflict began in late February. He has described the attacks on Iran as “reckless” and “illegal.”
Earlier this month, Sánchez confirmed that Spain had already denied the United States permission to use the Rota naval base and Morón air base for operations related to the conflict. He also said Spain rejected all flight plans connected to the campaign, including those involving aerial refuelling aircraft.
“We are a sovereign country that does not wish to take part in illegal wars,” Sánchez said at the time.
Impact on U.S. operations
A White House official told the BBC that the U.S. military was continuing its campaign—known as Operation Epic Fury—without needing assistance from Spain.
“U.S. forces are meeting or surpassing all of their operational goals and do not require help from Spain or anyone else,” the official said.
Some American bombers involved in the operation are currently stationed at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, after the British government approved Washington’s request for their deployment in early March.
Because Spain has closed its airspace to operational flights, U.S. aircraft traveling from the UK base may need to reroute over the eastern Atlantic or across France instead of flying over the Iberian Peninsula.
Spanish media reports indicate that American planes would only be permitted to pass through Spanish airspace or land at Spanish bases in the event of an emergency.
Wider geopolitical implications
Spain’s stance reflects broader concerns in Europe about the widening regional conflict and its economic impact.
The situation has already heightened tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, the strategic waterway between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula through which roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply normally passes.
Threats of Iranian drone and missile attacks in the area have significantly disrupted shipping and contributed to surging global oil prices.
Spain’s government says its position is rooted in international law and its broader opposition to military conflicts, a stance Prime Minister Sánchez recently summarized as “no to war.”