Madrid bars American aircraft tied to Iran operations while maintaining logistical agreements under existing military cooperation.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Spain has prohibited U.S. military aircraft involved in operations against Iran from using its airspace, while also restricting access to key bases, according to a report by El País.
The decision applies not only to aircraft operating directly from Spanish soil but also to U.S. planes stationed in other countries, including the United Kingdom and France, that are participating in the ongoing campaign. Spanish authorities are also tracking U.S. aircraft movements linked to the operation.
Citing military sources, the report states that Spain has denied the use of the Rota naval base in Cádiz and Morón Air Base near Seville for fighter aircraft and aerial refueling missions tied to the conflict. The restriction extends to all flight plans associated with operations in Iran.
Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares confirmed the policy during a radio interview, according to La Vanguardia, stating that Spain’s position is guided by a desire to avoid actions that could escalate the conflict. The move aligns with the government’s stated position of neutrality regarding military actions involving Iran.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez had previously referenced the policy during a parliamentary session, saying Spain had rejected all U.S. requests involving operational flights connected to the Iran campaign, including those for refueling missions.
The restriction includes a limited exception for emergency situations, allowing aircraft in distress to transit or land in Spanish territory if necessary.
Despite the prohibition, existing bilateral agreements between Spain and the United States remain in place. U.S. Air Force operations connected to broader logistical support for American forces in Europe continue unaffected.
According to the report, Spain’s air traffic control system has provided navigation support for long-range bomber missions, including flights involving B-2 Spirit aircraft departing from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. These aircraft transit near Spanish territory but do not enter national airspace, passing instead over the Strait of Gibraltar.
Spanish officials have indicated that the government does not anticipate retaliatory measures from Washington. Albares stated that Spain’s actions are consistent with international law and obligations under the United Nations Charter.
Additional confirmation of the policy came from Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo, who told El Español that the restrictions would not affect broader economic relations between Spain and the United States.
The measures reflect Spain’s effort to maintain its policy stance while balancing its commitments as a NATO member and its bilateral defense relationship with the United States.
Original article
Comments