Spain Shuts Airspace to U.S. Military Aircraft Amid Iran Conflict
Military sources confirmed that Madrid is now making it even harder for the U.S. to use their shared bases in Spain, going much further than the original ban.
Spain has closed its airspace to United States military aircraft participating in strikes against Iran, according to a report published in the Spanish newspaper El País.
The airspace closure compels U.S. military aircraft to circumvent Spanish territory entirely when traveling to targets in the Middle East. However, the restriction does not apply to emergency situations, according to the report. The move effectively forces American jets to take longer routes around the Iberian Peninsula, adding flight time and logistical complexity to operations against Iranian targets.
Spain's Minister of Economy defended the decision during an interview with Radio Cadena Ser, framing it as consistent with the government's broader policy stance. "This decision is part of the policy adopted by the Spanish government not to participate or contribute to a war that began unilaterally and against international law," the minister stated.
The airspace prohibition follows Spain's earlier refusal to permit American forces to utilize Spanish military installations for operations related to the ongoing war with Iran. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has characterized the U.S. military actions in Iran as "reckless and illegal," positioning his socialist government in direct opposition to Washington's approach.
Iran Offers Diplomatic Carrot
Iran's ambassador to Spain has signaled Tehran's willingness to grant Spanish vessels preferential treatment in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian envoy noted that his country would "favorably consider" any Spanish request for passage through the waterway, which Iran has periodically closed to international shipping in recent weeks.
"We have enjoyed friendly relations with Spain for four decades. Spain has adhered to international law, and this is to its benefit," the ambassador stated, explicitly linking Madrid's stance on the Iran conflict to potential economic advantages. No formal request from the Spanish government has been received as of yet, according to the ambassador.
Spain's decision to close its airspace represents one of the most significant acts of non-cooperation by a NATO member state since the war with Iran escalated. The move places Madrid in a small group of European nations openly opposing American military strategy in the region.