Several U.S. aircraft have departed from the jointly operated military bases of Rota and Morón in southern Spain after the Spanish government denied Washington permission to use the facilities for military operations against Iran.
Spain’s Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, stated that Spain would not authorize the use of its territory for “anything that is not in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations.”
The decision places Spain at odds with some of its European partners.
Although NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte told BBC News that Europe is “absolutely supportive” of U.S. action in Iran, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez condemned what he described as a “unilateral military action” carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran.
Strategic Significance
- Naval Station Rota hosts U.S. Navy vessels, including destroyers that are part of NATO’s missile defense system.
- Morón Air Base is a key hub for U.S. Air Force operations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
- Both bases operate under long-standing U.S.–Spain defense agreements.
Spain’s move underscores divisions within Europe over how to respond to escalating tensions in the Middle East and reflects Madrid’s emphasis on adherence to international law and the UN framework.
