Diplomatic tensions between the United States and Spain have intensified after President Donald Trump suggested that Washington could halt trade ties with Spain — a threat that prompted a firm response from Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
Dispute Over Iran Strikes
The disagreement stems from Spain’s criticism of recent U.S. and Israeli military strikes against Iran. The operation, launched after nuclear negotiations reportedly collapsed, targeted senior Iranian leadership. Some reports claim that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials were killed, though casualty figures and details remain widely debated.
While U.S. officials have defended the strikes as necessary for national and regional security, Spain’s government has openly condemned the action.
Spain’s Position
Sánchez described the operation as an “unjustified and dangerous intervention,” arguing that it risks violating international law and destabilizing the region.
Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated that U.S. military bases located in Spain would not be used for operations tied to the conflict unless they fully complied with bilateral agreements and international legal standards.
Defense Minister Margarita Robles echoed that stance, emphasizing that any military cooperation must remain consistent with international law and treaty obligations.
Trump’s Warning
Speaking from the White House, Trump criticized Spain’s leadership and suggested the possibility of cutting trade ties.
He said Spain had been “terrible” in its response and indicated that Treasury officials had been asked to review economic relations between the two countries. At the same time, Trump praised the Spanish people while criticizing their government’s position.
The president also renewed pressure on NATO allies to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP, noting that Spain has not supported that target.
Spain’s Response
From the Moncloa Palace in Madrid, Sánchez rejected the criticism and reaffirmed Spain’s position.
“We will not be complicit in something that is bad for the world and contrary to our values simply out of fear of reprisals,” he said.
He framed Spain’s stance not as support for any particular government but as a commitment to international law and peace, concluding his remarks with a clear message: “No to war.”
