Madrid disputes claim from Washington that it agreed to assist U.S. operations following President Donald Trump’s warning of potential trade retaliation.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Spain’s foreign minister publicly rejected a claim from the White House that Madrid had agreed to cooperate with U.S. military operations tied to the conflict with Iran, disputing remarks made by the administration during a press briefing in Washington.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Albares said Spain had not changed its stance after White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Madrid had reversed an earlier refusal to allow U.S. forces to use Spanish bases for strikes connected to the Iran conflict.
Responding to the assertion, Albares told reporters that Spain’s position had not shifted. According to remarks shared by El País, he said, “She will be the White House spokesperson, but I am Spain’s Foreign Minister and I tell her that our position remains the same.”
Earlier in the day, Leavitt told reporters during a White House briefing that Spanish officials had reconsidered their earlier refusal following comments from President Donald Trump warning of potential economic consequences.
Speaking at the briefing, Leavitt said Madrid had agreed to assist U.S. military activity in the region after the president issued a message urging European allies to support the mission. In comments shared online, Leavitt said, “With respect to Spain, I think they heard the president’s message yesterday loud and clear. And it’s my understanding, over the past several hours, they’ve agreed to cooperate with the U.S. military.” The statement from the briefing was circulated in video form on social media and posted by commentator Nick Sortor, where the remarks can be viewed here.
The dispute follows Spain’s earlier announcement that it would not allow U.S. forces to use jointly operated bases in southern Spain for strikes not authorized under the United Nations charter.
Spain hosts several installations used jointly with the United States, including naval and air facilities that support operations across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
The conflicting statements highlight a developing diplomatic disagreement between Madrid and Washington as the U.S. continues its military campaign against Iran in coordination with Israel.
The White House has not issued additional clarification following Albares’ denial.
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