Spain closes airspace to US Military planes over Iran war decision

The ongoing conflict in West Asia has now entered its 31st day. Amid this, the European nation Spain has banned the entry of American warplanes into its airspace. Spain has made it clear that it will not allow its airspace to be used for military operations related to the Middle East conflict.

Spain’s Defence Minister Margarita Robles confirmed the decision, stating that Spain had already informed the United States and its military about the restriction. She said that Spain has closed its airspace to US aircraft involved in the Iran war.

Spain has been one of the strongest European critics of US and Israeli policies in the Middle East. Robles said, “This decision had been communicated to U.S. military forces from the beginning. Therefore, neither the use of military bases nor Spanish airspace will be permitted.” She also described the Iran war as illegal and unjust.

Spain believes that the actions of the United States and Israel violate international law and the United Nations Charter.

Why is Spain upset with the US?

Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated that Spanish facilities can only be used for activities that comply with bilateral agreements and the United Nations framework.

Following this decision, around 15 U.S. military aircraft, including KC-135 tanker planes, reportedly left southern Spanish bases and moved to Germany and other locations. According to flight tracking data, these aircraft were being used for refueling operations linked to strikes on Iran.

Spain’s firm stance has increased tensions with its NATO ally, the United States.

US President Donald Trump reportedly threatened trade restrictions against Spain, but the Spanish government remains firm in its position. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called the war an unjust and dangerous military intervention and said Spain would not participate in the conflict under any circumstances.

Spain’s move is being seen as one of the clearest signs of European opposition to US policy on Iran. The government has emphasized that military bases remain under Spanish sovereignty and can only be used in accordance with international law.