Spain has rejected claims by the White House that it agreed to cooperate with the US military in the ongoing war with Iran.
Spanish officials reiterated their firm opposition to military involvement, even after President Donald Trump threatened economic repercussions.
On Wednesday, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt suggested that Spain had shifted its stance and agreed to support US military operations.
“Over the past several hours, they’ve agreed to cooperate with the US military,” Leavitt told reporters, referencing Spain’s previously neutral position.
Spain’s Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares dismissed the claim categorically, stating on the Hora25 radio program, “Not a single comma has changed, and I have no idea whatsoever what they might be referring to.”
Madrid stands firm against war
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez addressed the issue on social media, recalling past experiences with Middle Eastern conflicts.
“The world, Europe, and Spain have faced this critical moment before. In 2003, a few irresponsible leaders dragged us into an illegal war in the Middle East that brought nothing but insecurity and pain,” Sanchez wrote on X, reiterating Spain’s rejection of military action.
The government emphasized that it continues to oppose violations of international law and the notion that global problems can be solved through bombs.
Support from Iran
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian praised Spain’s stance, highlighting ethical leadership in the West.
“Spain’s responsible conduct in opposing the Zionist-American coalition’s flagrant human rights violations and military aggression, including against Iran, shows that ethics and awakened consciences still exist,” Pezeshkian wrote on social media. “I commend Spanish officials for their stances.”
Spain as outlier in Europe
Spain has emerged as one of the few European nations openly opposing the US-Israel attacks on Iran.
Other EU members have largely urged de-escalation and civilian protection, without explicitly rejecting the military actions. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear programs as global security threats while promoting diplomatic solutions.
Spain has also been a vocal critic of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, further underscoring its independent foreign policy stance.
The dispute highlights growing tension between Washington and Madrid, as economic and political pressure is used to influence foreign policy. Spain’s firm opposition signals potential friction in transatlantic relations if the conflict with Iran escalates further.
