Tensions surge between Spain and US on Iran conflict

Tensions between the US and Spain have escalated after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez refused a US request to use two longstanding Spanish bases for operations against Iran, according to CNN.

“The position of the Spanish Government can be summed up in four words: no to war,” Sánchez said on March 4, citing Spain’s involvement in the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. 

In retaliation, US President Donald Trump threatened to suspend trade with Spain, claiming the country “has absolutely nothing we need.”

Despite this recent disagreement, the US and Spain share a history of military cooperation, exemplified by their joint use of two Spanish bases.

The US Navy operates from Rota Naval Base, situated in the Bay of Cadiz, while the US Air Force uses Morón de la Frontera Air Base, on Seville’s outskirts.

These bases have played pivotal roles in US military campaigns, including the Gulf War (1990-1991), the Yugoslavia conflict, the invasion of Afghanistan (2001), the Iraq War (2003-2011), and more recent Middle Eastern operations.

Approximately 6,000 Americans, including military personnel, civilians, and family members, are stationed at Rota, while Morón de la Frontera hosts around 550 Americans, both military and civilian.

By Jeyhun Aghazada