Spain’s defense minister Margarita Robles in headlines as Spain distances itself from US-led Iran tensions and braces for potential NATO strains. Brief bio: Spanish judge-politician, Minister of Defence since 2018.
Spain's defense minister clarified that US troops at Morón and Rota bases must operate within international law and will not support recent attacks on Iran. The move follows Spain's refusal to allow its bases' use for military action, prompting US President Trump to threaten trade sanctions against Spain.
On March 30, 2026, Spain officially closed its airspace to military operations related to the war in Iran, extending its prior ban on the use of Spanish bases by U.S. and Israeli forces. This move forces U.S. military flights to reroute around Spain, reflecting Madrid's stance against what it calls an illegal and unilateral war. The decision has strained U.S.-Spain relations, with President Trump threatening trade sanctions.
UK Prime Minister has stated that the UK is not supporting the US-led blockade of Iranian ports and is focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The US military has announced plans to enforce the blockade, while France and the UK prepare a diplomatic conference. Tensions escalate as Iran restricts traffic through the strait.