Spain has denied U.S. aircraft access to its airspace and key military bases, Rota and Moron, for operations related to actions against Iran, escalating tensions between the two countries.
Spain Denies Access for Iran-Related Operations
The Spanish government repeatedly confirmed it would not allow U.S. aircraft to use the Rota and Moron bases, utilized by the U.S. for decades, in what it deemed “illegal” operations against Iran. This stance led to friction in bilateral relations and threats from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding potential trade restrictions with Spain.
Spain has limited flight access for U.S. aircraft, according to a report by *El Pais* on March 30th.
Expanded Restrictions on U.S. Flights
*El Pais* reported that Spain also prohibited U.S. military aircraft stationed in third countries, such as the United Kingdom and France, from using Spanish airspace. The newspaper published a map illustrating U.S. B-52 and B-1 bomber routes, showing flights avoiding Spanish airspace.
Sanchez Confirms Policy in Parliament
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez had already mentioned the ban in parliament last Wednesday, but his comments initially went unnoticed. He stated, “We denied the U.S. the use of bases in Rota and Moron within the framework of this illegal war. All flight plans involving operations related to Iran were rejected, including those for refueling aircraft.”
Limited Exceptions to the Ban
The ban has one exception: flights are permitted for emergency situations only. However, *El Pais* notes that the bases in Rota and Moron continue to be used for all missions covered by the existing bilateral agreement with Washington, such as logistical support for U.S. troops stationed in Europe.
Navigational Support Continues for Some Missions
The Seville flight control center still provides navigational support for B-2 Spirit bombers flying from Missouri to attack Iran and returning on 30-hour, non-stop flights. However, these bombers do not enter Spanish airspace, instead flying over the Strait of Gibraltar, a situation Spain cannot prevent.
Intense Negotiations Preceded the Ban
Prior to the attack on Iran, intense negotiations took place between the U.S. and Spain. The Pentagon dispatched at least 15 KC-135 refueling aircraft to the Rota and Moron bases, citing an operation to pressure Iran. The U.S. also explored the possibility of deploying B-52 and B-1 bombers to Spanish bases.
Spain Refuses to Support Unlawful Operations
The plan to deploy bombers was withdrawn after Madrid communicated it could not cooperate with any operation not in compliance with international law and conducted under the auspices of an international organization. *El Pais* assessed that Spain’s refusal to cooperate “complicated the progress of the operation (against Iran) from a military point of view.”
