Spain has said it will not allow its joint military bases to be used for operations against Iran, distancing itself from the ongoing U.S. and Israeli strikes and describing the escalation as inconsistent with international law.
Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said Madrid had received no indication that facilities such as the Naval Base Rota and Morón Air Base were being used in the campaign. “Based on all the information I have, the bases are not being used for this military operation,” he told Spanish television.
Although U.S. forces operate at the bases under bilateral agreements, the installations remain under Spanish sovereignty. Albares stressed that any activity must comply strictly with existing arrangements and United Nations principles.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez criticised the strikes, calling them “unjustified” and “dangerous,” and warning that the region risks sliding into wider conflict. In remarks shared publicly, he said military action had been taken without broader international consultation.
“It is possible to be against a regime and at the same time oppose an intervention that violates international law,” Sánchez said, urging diplomacy over escalation. He argued that the operation lacked authorisation from the U.S. Congress and the U.N. Security Council.
Defence Minister Margarita Robles echoed the position, saying Spanish bases would not provide support beyond existing agreements, except potentially for humanitarian purposes.
While opposing the strikes, Spain also condemned Iran’s retaliatory missile attacks targeting regional countries. Flight data showed that several U.S. aircraft have transited Spanish bases since the escalation began, with many reportedly relocating to Germany.
Spain’s stance contrasts with other European powers. Britain initially restricted use of its bases but later authorised them for collective self-defence after Iran’s counterattacks. France and Germany have signalled closer alignment with Washington, issuing a joint statement condemning Iran’s missile strikes and pledging coordination with U.S. and regional partners.
