Spain has dismissed reports suggesting the United States is considering punitive measures against NATO allies over their stance on the Iran war, including a highly unlikely proposal to suspend Madrid from the alliance.
Speaking ahead of an EU leaders’ summit in Cyprus, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said he was “not worried” about the claims, emphasizing that Spain bases its positions on official government policy rather than leaked internal communications.
The comments came after reports, citing a US official, revealed that an internal Pentagon email outlined potential actions against allies deemed uncooperative during the conflict with Iran.
Among the options reportedly discussed were suspending Spain from NATO and reassessing US support for the UK’s sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, dw.com reports.
Spain, along with Italy and France, declined to grant the US access to its airspace and military bases for operations targeting Iran.
Madrid also openly criticized the joint US-Israeli strikes on Tehran, describing them as violations of international law.
Sánchez reiterated that Spain remains committed to NATO but operates strictly within the framework of international legality. “Spain is a reliable ally,” he said, underlining continued cooperation with partners.
Despite the speculation, NATO officials have pointed out that the alliance’s founding treaty contains no mechanism to suspend or expel member states, raising questions about the feasibility of such proposals.
Germany also played down the reports, with a government spokesperson affirming that Spain’s NATO membership is not in doubt.
Meanwhile, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called for unity within the alliance, stressing the need to strengthen Europe’s role alongside the United States.
Tensions have been fueled by repeated criticism from US President Donald Trump, who has accused NATO allies of failing to support Washington during the conflict.
He has particularly criticized countries that refused to deploy naval forces to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route disrupted by the war.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas expressed confusion over Washington’s stance, noting that European countries had responded to US requests within their capabilities, including plans for post-war demining operations and maritime security.
While the Pentagon declined to comment on internal deliberations, a spokesperson said the administration is exploring “credible options” to ensure allies contribute more effectively, echoing Trump’s longstanding complaints about burden-sharing within NATO.
The reported memo also touched on tensions with the United Kingdom, suggesting a review of US backing for its claim to the Falkland Islands after London initially limited US military access during the conflict.
British officials, however, reaffirmed that sovereignty over the islands remains non-negotiable and firmly under UK control.
Overall, the episode highlights growing strains within NATO as divisions emerge over military involvement, legal frameworks, and burden-sharing in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.
