Spain Shuts Airspace to US Aircraft Amid Iran Conflict

Mon Mar 30 2026 16:05:37 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In a bold move, Spain has closed its airspace to U.S. planes participating in operations against Iran, aiming to prevent escalation in the ongoing conflict. Defense Minister Margarita Robles emphasized Spain's commitment to non-involvement in illegal wars.

Spain has officially closed its airspace to U.S. aircraft associated with military actions in Iran, as announced by Defense Minister Margarita Robles. This decision aims to prevent any involvement that could aggravate the conflict, aligning with the Spanish government's stance against the U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.

Spain has closed its airspace to US planes involved in attacks on Iran, Madrid's defence minister Margarita Robles has said.

We will not authorise the use of Moron and Rota [military bases] for any acts related to the war in Iran, she added, indicating that this position was communicated to the American government from the start.

Foreign affairs minister José Manuel Albares stated that the goal of this decision is to not do anything that could encourage an escalation in this war. The US has yet to comment; however, President Donald Trump has previously threatened potential trade sanctions against Spain due to its opposition to the Iran war.

The Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been vocal in denouncing the US and Israeli attacks on Iran, labeling them reckless and illegal. Earlier in March, Spain denied the US access to the two jointly run military bases at Rota and Morón.

All flight plans associated with operations targeting Iran have been denied, including those for refueling aircraft, according to Sánchez. He emphasized that Spain is a sovereign nation and opts out of illegal wars.

US bombers involved in the conflict are currently stationed at the RAF Fairford base in the UK, causing them to reroute their flights away from much of the Iberian Peninsula.

Spain's commitment to not participate in military escalations reflects its desire to uphold international law and among its citizens, resonating with a larger anti-war sentiment expressed by Sánchez in public addresses.

In recent communications, the Iranian embassy in Spain acknowledged Spain's responsible position towards international law and indicated openness to regarding transit through the Strait of Hormuz.