Spain closes its airspace to US military aircraft involved in the war in the Middle East

Madrid refuses to participate in logistical operations against Iran, exacerbating tensions with Washington.

Published on 30/03/2026 at 14:22, 1min read time.

Caption: The Spanish Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles, participating in a meeting of European Union Defense Ministers in Brussels (Belgium) on December 1, 2025. (DURSUN AYDEMIR / AFP)

A clear political stance. Spain announced on Monday, March 30, the prohibition of the use of its airspace to American planes involved in the war against Iran, once again showing its opposition to the strikes carried out by the United States and Israel since February 28. “The use of [American bases in Spain] is not authorized, and, of course, the use of Spanish airspace for actions related to the war in Iran is not either,” stated the Spanish Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles.

This decision has concrete consequences on American military operations, with some bombers having to bypass the Iberian Peninsula to reach the Middle East. It aligns with the position of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who deems this war “illegal” and “a grave mistake.”

This refusal to cooperate has sparked strong reactions from Donald Trump, who threatened to “cease” commercial exchanges with Spain. While Madrid blocks any use of its bases for operations related to the conflict, missions outlined in bilateral agreements remain in effect. This incident occurs in a context of broader tensions between the two countries, particularly regarding military spending, as the United States criticizes Spain for not meeting the 2% of GDP target set within NATO.