Spain’s Firm Stance on U.S. Military Bases
Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Álvarez reiterated on Tuesday that the country will not allow the United States to use its military bases in the context of the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, the socialist government has been one of the most vocal critics of U.S. military actions against Iran, labeling the conflict as “absurd, cruel, and illegal.”
The Spanish government has actively opposed U.S. military interventions in Iran, barring American aircraft from using military bases in Rota, Cadiz, and Moron de la Frontera, Seville. Furthermore, they’ve restricted U.S. military planes stationed in other countries from flying through Spanish airspace. In response to this ban, the White House made it clear in March that it does not require assistance “from Spain or anyone else” for its objectives regarding Iran.
In a conversation with Politico, Álvarez emphasized Spain’s commitment to international norms and pointed out that European nations should not be forced to abandon their principles. He defended Spain’s stance on the issue but expressed a desire to maintain a positive relationship with the U.S. He noted Spain’s historical role, stating it’s one of the few nations that aided the U.S. in achieving independence.
“We stand firm on our values and prioritize the interests of our people. That’s what truly guides my actions,” Álvarez remarked.
He also mentioned that the utilization of Rota and Moron de la Frontera is based on an agreement between Spain and the U.S., which follows international law and the United Nations Charter. He characterized the conflict in Iran as a “one-sided war” and expressed concerns that neither Spain nor any NATO member had been adequately informed about the situation.
Álvarez contended that there are now even stronger reasons for Spain to safeguard its national interests.
In reaction, White House press secretary Anna Kelly conveyed to Politico that “President Trump has expressed his dissatisfaction with NATO and other allies.” She noted that Europe benefits substantially from the presence of thousands of U.S. troops, yet requests to use military bases for U.S. interests have been rejected.
“The President has successfully restored America’s reputation globally and strengthened international alliances, while ensuring the U.S. is not unfairly treated by so-called allies,” she concluded.
Regarding Spain’s opposition to the Iran conflict, Álvarez remarked that their position aligns with the mainstream view within the EU. He claimed that Spain was the first to stand alone against the war, noting it took about a month for others in Europe to join in this perspective.
“Why? Because it resonates not just with the Spanish, but also with the broader interests of the European populace and our shared values,” he asserted.
This week, Álvarez reiterated Spain’s stance against U.S. military use of its bases and called for the establishment of a “European Army” to reduce dependence on the U.S. for defense. His call for an EU army comes amid Spain’s own struggles to meet its NATO defense obligations, as it is among the least contributing members of the alliance.
