U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to end all bilateral negotiations and trade with Spain following the European nation's refusal to allow the use of the Rota and Morón military bases. This comes amid escalating tensions related to the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Speaking at a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the White House, Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with the Spanish government's decision. He declared his readiness to "cut all commercial ties with Spain."
"No one will dictate whether I can use those bases," Trump asserted.
He continued, "Spain has claimed we can't use their bases, but if we choose, we can fly over and make use of them. Nobody will tell us otherwise," the president emphasized.
Trump further remarked, "Spain has nothing we desire. They are wonderful people but a terrible ally. We prefer not to engage with them."
"I can cease all dealings with Spain tomorrow, or even today. Every business interaction with Spain might be halted," he indicated.
The president's comments arrive as the conflict in the Middle East enters its fourth day, with European financial markets reacting negatively. The stock markets closed with losses exceeding 3%, highlighting investor concern over the conflict's escalation.
Trump concluded by criticizing Spain as an unreliable ally for the U.S.
"Some European Union countries have supported us. Germany has been a great ally. The NATO Secretary General is a fantastic person. However, countries like Spain are a nation and an ally that is terrible. I've already instructed to end all talks with Spain," he stated during the press conference.
Meanwhile, Israel has continued its bombardment of targets in Iran, and Israeli ground troops have entered Lebanon, which serves as a base for the pro-Iranian militia Hezbollah.
One of the most significant attacks targeted the Assembly of Experts in Qom, responsible for appointing the successor to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian media have not confirmed whether there were individuals inside during the strike.
In response, Iran has persisted with its assaults. On Tuesday, Iranian projectiles hit central Israel, injuring at least twelve people. Tehran also claimed to have struck the U.S. embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia's capital.
As the situation worsens, the Spanish government has initiated evacuation operations for citizens residing in the Middle East or those present at the conflict's onset.
Earlier today, a group of around thirty pilgrims, who had been stranded in Jerusalem, arrived in Madrid from Cairo. The Valencia Basket expedition, which was in Abu Dhabi, is also on its return journey.
The diplomatic tension between Washington and Madrid introduces a new political challenge in an international landscape already fraught with open conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran.
Impact of U.S.-Spain Diplomatic Tensions
What prompted Trump's threat to cut trade with Spain?
Trump's threat was triggered by Spain's refusal to allow the use of its military bases in Rota and Morón amid tensions related to the conflict with Iran.
How has the conflict in the Middle East affected European markets?
The escalation of the conflict has led to European stock markets closing with losses over 3%, reflecting investor concerns about the situation's impact.
What actions has the Spanish government taken in response to the conflict?
The Spanish government has initiated evacuation operations for its citizens in the Middle East, including facilitating the return of pilgrims and sports teams.