Spain Rejects U.S. Use of Military Bases for Attacks on Iran, Deems Operation Outside International Law

In a firm and public stance over the escalating U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran, the Spanish government has categorically denied permission for American forces to use jointly operated bases on its soil for any operations related to the strikes. Officials emphasized that the facilities must adhere strictly to bilateral agreements and the United Nations Charter, describing the current actions as unilateral and unlawful.

The decision centers on the key military installations at Rota Naval Base in Cádiz and Morón Air Base in Seville, which have hosted U.S. troops and aircraft under a long-standing defense pact dating back to the 1950s. While the bases remain under Spanish sovereignty, they serve as strategic hubs for American naval and air operations in Europe and the Mediterranean.

Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares made the position clear during interviews with Spanish media outlets on Monday, stating that the bases “are not being used for this military operation” and “will not be used for anything beyond the agreement with the United States or inconsistent with the United Nations.” He stressed that Spain supports democracy and human rights in Iran but cannot endorse actions lacking multilateral backing or violating international norms.

Defense Minister Margarita Robles reinforced the message in a press conference at Armilla Air Base, declaring “no assistance of any kind, absolutely none” had been or would be provided from Rota or Morón. She described the U.S.-Israeli strikes as “unilateral actions without the support of an international resolution,” adding that cooperation under the bilateral treaty requires operations to “operate within the framework of international law.” Robles noted that support would only be considered in humanitarian contexts until a UN or similar multilateral framework emerges.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been vocal in his criticism, labeling the intervention “unjustified, dangerous, and outside international law.” His government’s approach marks Spain as something of an outlier in Europe, where countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Germany have signaled willingness to support defensive measures or allow limited use of their facilities in response to Iranian retaliatory attacks on Gulf states and Cyprus.

The practical impact was immediate. Flight-tracking data showed at least 15 U.S. aircraft primarily KC-135 aerial refueling tankers departing the Spanish bases over the weekend and early Monday, many rerouting to Ramstein Air Base in Germany or other locations. The withdrawals came after Madrid’s objections, highlighting the constraints imposed by Spanish sovereignty over the sites.

This development feature broader tensions in transatlantic relations as the conflict widens. Spain has condemned Iran’s missile and drone strikes on regional targets, including those affecting EU partner Cyprus, and summoned Tehran’s ambassador in Madrid to convey strong disapproval. Yet Madrid insists on de-escalation, dialogue, and respect for international law as the only viable path forward, warning that unilateral violence risks a dangerous spiral.

Analysts note that while naval assets like U.S. destroyers stationed at Rota can operate independently once at sea limiting Spain’s direct influence over them the refusal to support air operations represents a significant diplomatic signal. It aligns with the Socialist-led government’s emphasis on multilateralism and moderation, even as the crisis draws more European nations into defensive postures.

As the regional conflict enters its critical phase, with energy markets volatile and airspace disruptions ongoing, Spain’s position grip divisions within the Western alliance over how to respond to Iran’s actions and the broader implications for global stability. Officials in Madrid continue to call for restraint and a return to negotiations, positioning Europe as a voice for balance amid the fight.