Spain Closes Airspace to U.S. Aircraft in Iran Conflict

Spain has restricted access to its airspace for U.S. aircraft participating in strikes against Iran, according to the country’s defense minister, Margarita Robles. She emphasized that Spain would not permit the use of its military bases at Moron and Rota for any operations linked to the conflict in Iran. Robles noted that this stance was communicated to the American government from the outset.

Spain’s foreign affairs minister, José Manuel Albares, stated the decision aims to prevent actions that might provoke further escalation in the war. The U.S. has yet to issue an immediate response, though President Donald Trump previously threatened to impose a complete trade embargo on Spain due to its opposition to the Iran campaign.

Spain’s Opposition to the Conflict

Since late February, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been a prominent critic of U.S. and Israeli actions in Iran, labeling them “reckless” and “illegal.” Earlier in March, Sánchez confirmed that Spain had denied the U.S. use of the two shared military bases in Andalusia. He further announced that all flight plans related to the Iran operation were rejected, including those for refueling missions.

“We are a sovereign nation that refuses to support unlawful wars,” Sánchez stated.

Some U.S. bombers operating in the Iran conflict are based at RAF Fairford in the UK, following a deal announced by Sir Keir Starmer on March 1. Flights from this location will now navigate around the Iberian Peninsula, either over the eastern Atlantic or through France. El País reported that Spanish airspace or the bases would only be used in emergencies.

Strait of Hormuz Concerns

Spain’s position on the war has also extended to strategic considerations. The Iranian embassy in Madrid expressed openness to Spain’s requests regarding transit through the Strait of Hormuz, citing Madrid’s commitment to international law. This waterway, located between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula, facilitates about 20% of global oil shipments. Recent threats of attacks by Iranian drones, missiles, or mines have kept it closed, causing oil prices to spike significantly.