Spain Rejects U.S. Pressure Over Iran Stance, Faces Trade Threat

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has staunchly defended his government’s opposition to military action in the Middle East, responding to threats from Washington of a full trade embargo after Madrid refused to allow U.S. Forces to use Spanish bases for potential strikes against Iran. The escalating tensions highlight a growing rift between the two nations, with broader implications for European solidarity and NATO cohesion.

Trump Threatens Trade Embargo

U.S. President Donald Trump publicly criticized Spain on Tuesday for denying the use of its Morón and Rota airbases in support of potential military operations against Iran. “Spain has been terrible,” Trump stated during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, adding he had directed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to “cut off all dealings” with Spain. Source

The threat of a full trade embargo comes amid broader concerns over Spain’s commitment to NATO defense spending targets, with Trump accusing the country of failing to meet the agreed-upon 5% of GDP. Source

Sánchez Defends Spain’s “No to War” Position

In a televised address on Wednesday, Prime Minister Sánchez firmly rejected the U.S. Pressure, reiterating his government’s commitment to peace and international law. He summarized Spain’s position as “no to war,” referencing the conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and the Iraq War as examples of the devastating consequences of military intervention. Source Source

Sánchez warned that the conflict in the Middle East could escalate into a wider disaster, comparing the situation to “playing Russian roulette with the destiny of millions.” He emphasized that Spain would not be complicit in actions that are “bad for the world” simply out of fear of retaliation. Source

European Solidarity and Opposition Concerns

The dispute has prompted expressions of solidarity with Spain from other European leaders. French President Emmanuel Macron conveyed his “solidarity” to Sánchez in a phone conversation, and European Council President António Costa affirmed the EU’s “full solidarity” with Madrid. Source

However, the opposition in Spain has criticized Sánchez’s stance, with Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the conservative People’s Party (PP), accusing the prime minister of prioritizing political expediency over Spain’s security and international standing. Source

UK Navigates Similar Pressure

The United States also reportedly pressured the United Kingdom to provide greater support for military actions against Iran. While initially refusing to allow its bases to be used, the UK later permitted limited defensive strikes after Iran attacked its neighbors. Source Trump criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for not providing sufficient support. Source

Starmer defended the UK’s position, emphasizing the ongoing cooperation between the two countries, including the use of American planes from British bases and intelligence sharing, characterizing this as the “special relationship in action.” Source

Uncertain Future

The immediate consequences of Trump’s threats remain unclear, particularly given a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down Trump’s emergency trade tariffs. Source Spain has emphasized its status as a reliable trade partner and called for any review of the relationship to be conducted in accordance with international law and existing agreements. Source