Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has refused to allow the United States to use Spanish military bases in support of the joint U.S.-Israeli operation against Iran, escalating tensions between Washington and Madrid over Spain’s defense policy.
American tanker aircraft stationed in southern Spain departed after Sánchez’s decision, which was confirmed by Defense Minister Margarita Robles, who said Monday that Spain “has not provided and will not provide” assistance for what she described as a “unilateral” operation via the Rota and Morón bases.
Strategic and Legal Considerations
Robles emphasized that the use of Spanish bases must comply with international law, despite longstanding bilateral agreements dating back to 1988, which allow joint operations at Rota and Morón. These bases are strategic hubs for transporting troops, equipment, and fuel to the Middle East and Gulf regions.
While these installations have been used in the past to support American and allied military missions, including the brief Israel-Iran conflict last year, Sánchez has consistently opposed their use for unilateral U.S. operations.
Political and Diplomatic Fallout
Sánchez has openly criticized U.S. military intervention, stating, “One can oppose the odious regime of Iran while also opposing military intervention,” calling it “unjustified, dangerous, and contrary to international law.”
The Iranian ambassador to Spain, Reza Zabib, praised Sánchez’s statements but declined to comment on his references to Iran’s government as “odious.”
This episode adds to existing tensions between Madrid and Washington. Sánchez has resisted U.S. pressure to increase Spain’s defense spending beyond the NATO guideline of 2% of GDP, arguing that higher spending would threaten Spain’s social model. U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized Spain’s defense spending, which increased from 1.43% of GDP in 2024 to 2% at the end of 2025.
Conclusion
By refusing U.S. access to its bases, Spain asserts its sovereign decision-making and commitment to international law, signaling a firm stance on military neutrality in the escalating Iran-Gulf conflict. Analysts say this decision could influence future U.S.-Spain military cooperation and further complicate diplomatic relations amid heightened regional tensions.
