Madrid / Washington – Spain has refused to allow the United States to use its military bases for any potential military action against Iran, signaling divisions among Western allies as tensions escalate in the Middle East.

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated that Spanish bases would neither be used nor made available for operations targeting Iran. Following the decision, 15 U.S. aircraft reportedly departed from the Rota Naval Base and Morón Air Base in southern Spain.

The move comes amid growing international concern over a widening regional conflict involving Iran and Israel, with the United States actively engaged.

Trump Expresses Discontent With UK

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with longtime ally the United Kingdom over delays in granting access to a key military facility.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was said to have delayed approval for the U.S. to use the Diego Garcia military base in the Indian Ocean. Washington had reportedly sought immediate access to launch strikes on Iranian targets from the base on the first day of the conflict.

However, the UK granted permission approximately 48 hours later, with conditions that U.S. forces would be limited to targeting Iranian missile sites only. The delay and restrictions reportedly frustrated President Trump, who conveyed his disappointment to the British prime minister.

Strains Among Western Allies

The developments highlight growing strain among Western partners over the scope and conduct of potential military operations against Iran. Spain’s refusal and Britain’s conditional approval underscore the cautious approach some European governments are taking amid fears of a broader regional war.

As diplomatic tensions rise alongside military escalation, analysts warn that differences within the Western alliance could complicate coordinated action in the Middle East.