Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has downplayed tensions with the United States over reports that Washington may penalize NATO allies who refuse to support its operations in the Iran war.
Speaking at a European Union summit in Cyprus, Sánchez dismissed reports of a Pentagon email suggesting potential action against countries like Spain, saying his government responds only to official positions, not unverified communications. He reiterated that Spain remains committed to working with allies, but strictly within the bounds of international law.
Spain has declined to allow U.S. forces involved in the conflict to use its bases or airspace, a stance also taken by other European nations including France and the United Kingdom. The reported U.S. response has fueled speculation about deeper divisions within NATO, although the alliance has no formal mechanism to suspend member states.
The dispute comes as U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized some NATO allies for not backing American actions in the Middle East or contributing to security efforts in the Strait of Hormuz.
European leaders, meanwhile, are exploring ways to strengthen regional security cooperation independently, amid concerns over shifting U.S. commitments to NATO and broader transatlantic relations.
