Spain has denied the United States permission to use jointly operated military bases on its territory for strikes against Iran, as Madrid intensifies criticism of the “unjustified and dangerous military intervention”. The refusal applies to bases in Rota and Morón, which are used by both countries under a bilateral agreement.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez explicitly condemned the US and Israel’s “unilateral military action”, warning it contributes to a “more hostile and uncertain international order”. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated on Monday that the bases “are not being used – nor will they be used – for anything that is not in the agreement [with the US], nor for anything that isn’t covered by the UN charter”. Defence Minister Margarita Robles echoed this, emphasising that operations must comply with international legal frameworks.
Flight-tracking data from Flightradar24 showed that 15 US aircraft have left Rota and Morón since the weekend, with at least seven landing at Ramstein airbase in Germany. US defence officials declined to comment on the reasons for the departures.
Sánchez’s stance aligns with his status as one of Europe’s most outspoken leaders, having been a vocal critic of Israel’s war in Gaza. His blunt condemnations may strain relations with US President Donald Trump, who previously criticised Spain for not meeting NATO defence spending targets.
Other European leaders have taken varied positions. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer initially withheld permission for US forces to use Diego Garcia or UK airbases due to legality concerns, but reversed his stance after Iran launched retaliatory attacks. Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he would not lecture partners on their strikes, while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for a diplomatic solution.
