Spanish officials say existing defense agreements with Washington do not authorize involvement in the ongoing Iran war and insist NATO allies were not consulted before military operations escalated.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
The government of Spain is intensifying its opposition to allowing the United States to use Spanish military bases in connection with the ongoing Iran conflict, arguing that existing bilateral agreements do not permit involvement in what officials describe as a unilateral war.
Speaking to Politico, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Albares defended Madrid’s refusal to support expanded U.S. military operations tied to efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
“This is a unilateral war. None of the NATO allies were consulted or informed,” Albares said. “We don’t know what’s going on. Neither Spain nor any other country. Even more reason to act and defend the interests of our citizens.”
The comments come as the administration of Donald Trump has pressed NATO members to provide logistical and operational support amid continuing instability in the Persian Gulf.
According to the report, Washington has repeatedly sought permission from allied nations to use regional bases and assist in maritime operations tied to the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway that handles a substantial share of global oil shipments.
Spain has emerged as one of the most resistant NATO members during the conflict.
Albares said Spain’s defense arrangements with the United States are governed by treaty obligations that require compliance with international law and the United Nations Charter.
“The use of those bases comes from an agreement, a treaty between both countries,” he said. “And it’s very clearly stated very early in the treaty that it must be in compliance with international law and the United Nations Charter.”
The dispute follows earlier tensions between Madrid and Washington. In March, Spain reportedly barred U.S. military aircraft connected to Iran operations from using Spanish airspace.
That decision came shortly after White House officials publicly suggested that Spain had agreed to broader military cooperation, a claim Spanish officials quickly denied.
The disagreement highlights growing divisions inside North Atlantic Treaty Organization over the expanding Middle East conflict and the scope of allied participation.
While some NATO members have provided limited logistical or intelligence support, several European governments have expressed concern about becoming directly entangled in a prolonged regional war.
Spain’s stance has also drawn criticism from Trump, who has publicly pressured allied governments to contribute more aggressively to U.S.-led security operations.
The continuing standoff comes as global energy markets remain volatile amid disruptions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing military tensions involving Iran, the United States, and regional allies.