MADRID, March 30 – Spanish authorities have prohibited United States military aircraft participating in operations against Iran from entering the country’s airspace, according to a report published Monday by the Spanish daily El Pais, which cited defense sources.
The airspace restriction requires American military aircraft to find alternative flight paths around the NATO ally as they travel toward Middle Eastern targets, though emergency situations would be exempt from the ban, El Pais reported.
Spanish defense officials have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the reported policy change.
When asked whether the airspace closure might damage diplomatic ties with Washington, Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo explained the rationale during a radio interview with Cadena Ser. “This decision is part of the decision already made by the Spanish government not to participate in or contribute to a war which was initiated unilaterally and against international law,” Cuerpo stated.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has emerged as one of the strongest critics of American and Israeli military actions against Iran, characterizing the operations as both reckless and illegal.
In response to Spain’s refusal to provide access to its military facilities for the conflict, President Donald Trump has warned of potential trade restrictions against Madrid.
