In a move that solidifies Madrid’s stance against the US and Israel’s military campaign against Iran, Spain has decided to ban US warplanes involved in the Middle East from flying through its airspace, writes Politico.
Deputy Prime Minister Carlos Cuerpo confirmed Spain’s decision on the 30th of March, adding that the ban is in line with an existing ban on the use of Spanish military bases for operations in the Middle East.
In an interview with Cadena SER radio, he said that this is part of the Spanish government’s decision not to get involved or participate in a war that the US and Israel have started unilaterally, in violation of international law.
Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles stressed that the ban has been in place since the beginning of the conflict, and the conditions have been made very clear. She added that
Spain has not allowed military bases or airspace to be used for activities related to the war against Iran.
It is not clear how much of an impact Spain’s decision will have on warplanes, such as the B-2 Spirit bombers that are heading to Iran from Missouri. Spanish authorities have said that the planes still receive support from Spanish controllers and are allowed to fly into Spanish airspace in emergencies.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is a leading European opponent of the war, and Spain’s refusal to allow military bases to be used for the war against Iran has deeply angered US President Donald Trump, who, among other critical statements about the Spanish, has also threatened to cut off all trade ties with Europe’s fourth-largest economy.
Read also: US considers expanding operations against Iran; considers taking over Kharg Island
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