Spain shuts airspace for US planes involved in Iran war

Spain’s left-leaning government has barred US military aircraft involved in operations against Iran from using its airspace and has also denied access to its bases, Defence Minister Margarita Robles said on Monday.

Speaking to reporters, Robles confirmed that neither Spanish airspace nor military bases would be made available for actions connected to the conflict involving Iran, reinforcing an earlier report by El Pais.

The decision has reportedly created logistical challenges for US forces, requiring adjustments to flight routes and operational planning for missions heading toward the Middle East, according to the newspaper.

However, exceptions may be granted in emergency situations, where aircraft are permitted to transit or land if necessary.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has remained one of the most outspoken Western leaders opposing the conflict, which began following joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28 and has since escalated across the region.

His position has strained relations with Washington, with US President Donald Trump reportedly threatening trade measures against Spain amid the growing disagreement.

Tensions had already been heightened after Spain declined to support a US-backed proposal for NATO members to increase defence spending to five percent of their GDP.