Spain has firmly denied the United States access to its military bases for operations against Iran. This announcement follows US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets that have drawn condemnation from Spanish officials.
Spain’s Official Stance on US Military Operations
Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares stated on national television that, based on current information, US military bases in Spain are not being utilized for operations against Iran. This proclamation signals Spain’s commitment to its sovereignty concerning military activities conducted on its territory.
Condemnation of Military Interventions
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has characterized the US and Israeli strikes as “unjustified” and “dangerous.” He emphasized that the Spanish government opposes any military actions that fall outside established international laws.
Albares reiterated that the Spanish government would not authorize the use of military bases for operations that diverge from existing agreements or violate United Nations principles. The two primary military installations mentioned are the Rota naval base and the Moron airbase.
Conditions for Support
- The bases are under Spanish sovereignty.
- The US operates under a joint-use arrangement.
- Defense Minister Margarita Robles indicated possible humanitarian support may be the only exception.
Current Military Movements and International Response
Flight-tracking data showed that 15 US military aircraft departed from bases in southern Spain since the initiation of the attacks. At least seven of these aircraft landed at Ramstein airbase in Germany.
This Portuguese position contrasts sharply with the stance of other major European nations. While Britain previously resisted allowing the use of its bases, Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently approved their use for “collective self-defense” following Iranian counterattacks on US interests in the Middle East.
France and Germany have also expressed readiness to support similar operations. A joint statement from these nations condemned the “indiscriminate and disproportionate missile attacks” by Iran, highlighting their commitment to work alongside the US and regional allies on this evolving situation.
