Spain Closes Airspace and Bans US Base Use Over Iran War, Trump Threatens Trade

Spain formally closed its airspace to all US military aircraft involved in Epic Fury.

“The UK will pursue closer economic ties with the European Union in light of the war in Iran, Sir Keir Starmer has said”

BBC

The prohibition covers overflights of planes based in third countries such as the UK or France.

BBC

Defense Minister Robles framed Spain's stance as opposition to a deeply illegal and unjust operation.

Trump responded with threats to cut trade relations and demanded Spain increase defense spending.

Trump threatened to cut trade relations, but Spain's Minister of Economy insisted ties remain unchanged.

The airspace closure forms part of Spain's decision not to participate in a war started unilaterally.

Diario Palentino

This highlights the complex interplay between military cooperation and commercial interests within NATO.

It underscores the potential repercussions Spain faces for its refusal to participate in the Iran war.

The British Parliament rejected funding for strikes on Iran.

“The rejection of the military operation Epic Fury earned Spain a dialectical onslaught from U”

EL PAÍS

Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the need to pursue closer economic ties with the EU amid rising energy costs.

He sought to reassure the public the government was taking action to ease the cost of living.

The divergence between the UK and US approaches illustrates widening fissures within NATO.