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Spain denies US military use of airspace and bases
Spain has formally closed its airspace to US military aircraft involved in operations against Iran, Defence Minister Margarita Robles announced on Monday. The decision blocks access to two key Spanish bases and forces US bombers to reroute around the Iberian Peninsula.
Government cites sovereignty and de-escalation
Robles stated Spain would not permit the use of Morón and Rota air bases for any actions tied to the conflict in Iran. "We have communicated this position to the American government from the outset," she said.
Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares framed the move as an effort to prevent further escalation. "We will not take any steps that could fuel this war," he told reporters.
US insists operation remains on track
A White House official responded that the US military is "meeting or exceeding all objectives under Operation Epic Fury" and does not require Spanish support. The official added that the US can continue operations without assistance from Spain or other allies.
President Donald Trump had previously threatened a full trade embargo on Spain over its opposition to the Iran conflict.
Sánchez reinforces stance against 'illegal wars'
Since hostilities began in late February, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been a prominent critic of US and Israeli strikes on Iran, calling them "reckless" and "illegal." In early March, he confirmed Spain had denied the US access to the jointly operated bases at Rota and Morón in Andalusia.
Last week, Sánchez announced that Spain had rejected every flight plan linked to Iran operations, including those for refuelling aircraft. "We are a sovereign nation that refuses to participate in illegal wars," he said in a statement.
US bombers rerouted, oil markets react
US bombers involved in the Iran campaign are now stationed at RAF Fairford in the UK after Prime Minister Keir Starmer approved the deployment on 1 March. Aircraft departing from Fairford must now bypass most of the Iberian Peninsula, either flying over the eastern Atlantic or through French airspace.
Spanish newspaper El País reported that US planes would only be allowed to transit Spanish airspace or land at the bases in emergencies.
In a televised address on 4 March, Sánchez reflected on recent conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and the 2003 Iraq War, summarising Spain's stance as "no to war."
The Iranian embassy in Spain later indicated Tehran would consider requests from Madrid regarding transit through the Strait of Hormuz, citing Spain's commitment to international law.
The strait, a critical chokepoint for 20% of global oil supplies, has been effectively closed for weeks due to threats from Iranian drones, missiles, and potential mines. The disruption has driven oil prices sharply higher.
