Madrid, Spain. Spain has closed its airspace to U.S. planes involved in attacks on Iran, Spanish newspaper El Pais reported on Monday, citing military sources. The move goes beyond Spain’s previous denial of the use of jointly operated military bases, according to the report.
Airspace restrictions and exceptions
El Pais reported that the closure forces military planes to bypass NATO member Spain en route to targets in the Middle East. The report said the closure does not include emergency situations.
Government response and legal position
The Spanish Ministry of Defence did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo told radio Cadena Ser that the decision was part of an existing government stance not to participate in or contribute to a war that he said was initiated unilaterally and against international law.
Broader political and diplomatic context
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has been among the most vocal opponents of the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, describing them as reckless and illegal. U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to cut trade with Madrid for denying the United States use of Spain’s bases in the war.
How do you think Spain’s airspace decision could affect its relations with the United States?