Spain Blocks U.S. from Using Its Airspace for Iran War Operations

(MENAFN) Spanish officials confirmed on Monday that Spain has denied the United States permission to use its airspace for flights connected to the conflict involving Iran.

The restrictions extend to US aircraft stationed in third countries, including the United Kingdom and France, Spanish military sources told media.

Washington had also considered deploying strategic bombers, such as B-52 and B-1 aircraft, to bases in southern Spain. However, the plan was scrapped after Madrid made clear it would not support operations without international legal backing, media reported.

Defense Minister Margarita Robles reiterated the government’s stance.

“Everyone knows Spain’s position. The use of the bases is not authorized and, of course, the use of Spanish airspace is not authorized for actions related to the war in Iran,” she told reporters.

Spain has made a limited exception for emergency situations, permitting aircraft to transit or land if necessary, according to media.

Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares said the restriction aligns with Spain’s policy of avoiding actions that could escalate tensions in the Middle East.

Speaking to broadcaster RAC1, Albares said he is now “more concerned” than a month ago about the situation, warning it represents a “very serious” military scenario.

“At any moment, we could see an exodus of migrants from Iran toward Europe,” he said.

Albares added that the government fears the conflict could evolve into a “perpetual war” scenario.

Trade with US remains normal
Despite US President Donald Trump recently threatening to cut trade with Spain over its refusal to support the Iran conflict, Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said the airspace decision is unlikely to affect economic relations.

“Economic relations remain exactly the same as before the conflict,” he told Cadena SER radio on Monday, emphasizing that commercial ties are regulated at the European Union level.

“Spanish companies continue operating just like French, German, and Italian companies,” he added.

Cuerpo noted that Spain is working to expand its economic presence in the US, including opening new offices in Boston and Houston to support Spanish businesses.

He stressed that the airspace decision is not about economics, but rather “linked to whether or not to participate in a unilateral war that goes against international law.”

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