Spain has closed its airspace to US planes involved in attacks on Iran, denying use of Morón and Rota military bases, Defence Minister Margarita Robles confirmed.
Robles said Madrid informed Washington immediately that Spanish territory would not be used for any operations connected to the ongoing war in Iran or related missions.
Foreign Affairs Minister José Manuel Albares stated the decision aims to avoid actions that could escalate the military conflict between the United States and Iran further.
The US did not issue an immediate response to Spain’s announcement, although President Donald Trump has previously threatened trade sanctions over Madrid’s opposition to the Iran war.
Prime Minister Sánchez Opposes US-Iran Military Actions
Since February, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been a vocal critic of US and Israeli attacks on Iran, describing them as reckless and illegal interventions.
In early March, Sánchez confirmed Spain had denied US requests to use the Rota and Morón bases, both located in Andalusia, for military operations against Iran.
Last Wednesday, Sánchez announced that all flight plans linked to the Iran operation, including refuelling missions, had been formally rejected by the Spanish government without exception.
He said Spain is a sovereign nation and will not participate in military actions considered illegal under international law or contrary to national policy principles.
Strategic Impact on Oil Transit and Flight Routes
Some US bombers involved in Iran operations are stationed at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, after the British government approved American use of the base.
Flights originating from the UK base must now bypass most of the Iberian Peninsula, either over the eastern Atlantic Ocean or over French airspace instead.
Spanish media reported that US aircraft may transit Spanish airspace or land at the bases only in cases of emergency or critical operational necessity, not routine missions.
In a televised address on 4 March, Sánchez reflected on past conflicts, including Ukraine, Gaza, and Iraq, summarising Spain’s stance on war with the phrase, “no to war.”
The Iranian embassy in Spain later confirmed Tehran would cooperate with Madrid regarding navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, citing Spain’s commitment to international law and maritime regulation.
Approximately twenty percent of the world’s oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively closed by security threats, causing significant increases in global oil prices.
