Spain refuses US bases for Iran strikes, making clear that jointly operated military facilities on its territory will not be used in the current conflict.
According to flight tracking data from FlightRadar24, nearly 15 US aircraft have departed from the Rota and Moron bases since Washington launched military strikes against Iran. Both installations are jointly operated by Spain and the United States but remain under Spanish sovereignty.
Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares confirmed that the bases would not be used for operations linked to the US-Israeli strikes.
In an interview with Telecinco, Albares stated: “Spanish bases are not being used for this operation, and they will not be used for anything not included in the agreement with the United States or for anything that is not in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations.”
Spain has openly condemned the US strikes on Iran, marking a notable divergence from some European allies.
UK Takes Different Approach
In contrast, the United Kingdom, which had earlier declined to authorise the use of its bases, reportedly approved them on Sunday under the framework of collective self-defence.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez also condemned both the US-Israeli strikes on Iran and the subsequent Iranian retaliation, reinforcing Madrid’s position that military escalation should be avoided.
Spain’s decision underscores its emphasis on sovereignty and adherence to international agreements governing the use of shared military facilities.
Read: Russia Condemns Iran Strikes, Says It Is in Constant Contact With Tehran
As tensions in the Middle East continue, European responses remain varied, reflecting differing political and strategic calculations among allies.
