Spain rejects Rutte claim of broad NATO backing for war with Iran
Mar 5th 2026
Madrid opposes strikes on Iran and disputes claims of broad NATO backing, while stressing alliance commitment, denying U.S. use of Spanish bases, and sending warships to support Cyprus.
- Spain publicly rejected Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s claim that NATO allies massively back a war with Iran.
- Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said Spain says "no to war" and insisted respect for international law must be paramount.
- Madrid has refused U.S. requests to use jointly operated Spanish bases for strikes and has sharply criticized the escalation in the Middle East.
- Defense Minister Margarita Robles said Spain remains a committed NATO member and that a Spanish Patriot battery helped detect the Iranian missile shot down over Turkey.
- Spain dispatched the frigate Cristobal Colón to join Greek and French forces, expressed willingness to join a defensive mission to Cyprus after Iranian drone activity, and Robles told the U.S. ambassador Spain demands respect for its sovereignty.