general

White House rebukes Spain after Madrid bars US military flights linked to Iran

Madrid barred US military flights tied to operations against Iran and blocked use of Spanish bases, prompting a White House response saying US forces do not need Spain's assistance.

Mar 30th 2026 · Spain

Insights

  • Spain closed its airspace to US military flights involved in operations against Iran.
  • A White House spokesperson said US forces are meeting or exceeding objectives in Operation Epic Fury and do not need Spain's help.
  • Spain had already banned the use of Rota and Morón bases for that operation.
  • The move is part of Madrid's opposition to actions against the Iranian regime and has drawn sharp US criticism.