European country deals blow to US, closes airspace to American planes involved in Iran war

Madrid (The Uttam Hindu): In the fierce war going on against Iran, America has received a severe blow from one of its close allies. Taking a big decision, Spain has completely closed its airspace for any American military aircraft involved in this war. Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles clarified on Monday that a strong message had already been given to the US Army that Spanish military bases would not be used for this conflict in the Middle East and now this ban has been strictly implemented in the skies as well. Earlier, Spain had also clearly refused America the use of its Rota and Moron military bases.

Spain is the most vocal among European countries, calling the war 'illegal and unjust'

Spain has emerged as the European country most strongly criticizing the aggressive policies of the United States and Israel in the Middle East. Defense Minister Robles stated bluntly that this decision was made known to US military forces from the outset, and therefore they have no permission to use Spanish bases or airspace. Spain has declared this war against Iran completely illegal and unjust. The Spanish government clearly believes that this military action by the US and Israel is a direct violation of international law and the UN Charter.

American planes were driven out of Spain and forced to seek refuge in Germany

Spain's tough stance has forced the US to backtrack. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares clarified that Spanish bases can only be used for activities that fall within the scope of bilateral agreements and the United Nations. Following this tough decision, approximately 15 military aircraft, including US KC-135 tanker aircraft, were forced to leave their southern bases in Spain and head to Germany and other locations. According to data from flight tracking websites, these US aircraft were playing a crucial role in mid-air refueling for attacks on Iran. This rebellion in Spain has created significant tensions with NATO ally America.

Trump threatens trade sanctions, but PM Sanchez refuses to budge

Amid this major geopolitical development, US President Donald Trump has directly threatened the Spanish government with trade sanctions, but Spain remains firmly steadfast in its position. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has described the war as unjustified and a military intervention that poses a grave danger to the world. He has declared that Spain will not, in any way, be a party to this devastating conflict. This bold action by Spain is being seen as the most explicit protest against US Iran policy in Europe. The government firmly maintains that all military bases are under Spanish sovereignty and can only be used within the framework of international law.