Madrid — Tensions between Spain and the United States have exploded into a diplomatic standoff as U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to cut off all trade after Spain refused to let Washington use its military bases for operations related to the war in Iran, according to spanish media news.
The crisis began when the Spanish government publicly rejected U.S. and Israeli strikes in Iran, calling the military action “unilateral” and outside international law. Spain’s leaders insisted that the jointly operated bases at Rota and Morón in southern Spain, while used by both countries, remain under Spanish sovereignty and cannot be used for attacks that lack United Nations approval. Since that decision, at least 15 U.S. aircraft based there have reportedly left for other bases in Europe.
During a high-profile meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Trump lashed out at Madrid, calling Spain “terrible” and “unfriendly” for its refusal. He went further, declaring that the United States might end all trade relations with Spain, telling reporters: “We’re going to cut off all trade with Spain. We don’t want anything to do with Spain.”
Trump also criticized Spain’s defense spending, complaining that it had not met higher NATO targets, a point that deepened the diplomatic rift.
Spanish officials, however, have pushed back calmly. Madrid says it has the economic strength and legal backing to handle any fallout from U.S. threats, pointing out that trade ties are governed by European Union agreements and international law, not unilateral decisions from Washington. They have stressed their commitment to sovereignty, diplomacy, and legal frameworks even as the war in the Middle East widens.
With relations strained and global conflict flashing across headlines, experts warn that this row could test the unity of NATO allies and reshape diplomatic bonds for months to come.
