MADRID, — March 30, 2026 : Spain has formally closed its airspace to all United States military aircraft involved in operations against Iran, extending an earlier decision that barred the use of Spanish military bases for such missions. The move marks a significant policy step by Madrid, reinforcing its position of non-participation in the ongoing U.S. and Israeli military campaign.
The decision, confirmed on March 30 by Defence Minister Margarita Robles, applies broadly to aircraft directly or indirectly linked to the operation known as Operation Epic Fury. It includes not only aircraft stationed within Spain but also those operating from third countries such as the United Kingdom and France. Spanish authorities have rejected all related flight plans, allowing exceptions only in emergency situations.
Expanded Restrictions on Bases and Overflights
The airspace closure builds upon restrictions first outlined earlier in March, when Spain prohibited the use of jointly operated military facilities at Rota in Cádiz and Morón de la Frontera in Seville for operations connected to strikes on Iran. These bases, while used by U.S. forces, remain under Spanish sovereignty.
Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares had stated on March 2 that the bases would not be used for any activity outside the scope of bilateral agreements or inconsistent with the Charter of the United Nations. He emphasized that Spain would not permit its territory to support actions lacking a clear international legal framework.
Following that announcement, at least 15 U.S. aircraft—primarily KC-135 aerial refuelling tankers—departed from the affected bases. Flight tracking data indicated that several of these aircraft were subsequently relocated to installations in Germany.
Government Position on International Law
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez reiterated the government’s stance before Congress, stating that Spain has neither provided nor will provide any form of support for the military operations against Iran. He stressed that Spain’s defence cooperation agreements with the United States must operate strictly within the framework of international law.
The Spanish government has described the U.S. and Israeli actions as unilateral and outside the provisions of the United Nations Charter. Officials have maintained that both airspace and base access will not be granted for operations that do not align with these legal standards.
Divergence Within NATO
Spain’s position places it at variance with several NATO allies, including France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, which have taken different approaches regarding the operations. Madrid has sought to distance itself from these positions, underscoring its independent assessment of the legal and political dimensions of the conflict.
Despite the disagreement, Spanish authorities have indicated that existing defence arrangements with NATO partners remain in place for activities not related to the Iran operations.
Strait of Hormuz Developments
In a related development, Iran has granted Spain free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global energy shipments. The gesture comes amid heightened tensions in the region and follows Spain’s decision not to support the military campaign.
The Spanish government has ruled out participation in any military missions in the Strait, reiterating its position that the ongoing operations against Iran are not consistent with international law.
Operational Impact
While Spanish officials have not provided detailed assessments of the operational consequences, the closure of both airspace and key logistical bases is expected to affect flight routing and support arrangements for U.S. forces operating in and around the Middle East.
The government has maintained that its decisions are guided by adherence to international law and the established terms of its defence agreements. Authorities have emphasized that Spanish territory—including airspace and military installations—will not be used to facilitate operations that fall outside these parameters.
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