NATO Divide: Spain Stands Firm Amid US Pressure Over Iran War

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Friday refrained from engaging in a dispute with the United States about reports suggesting the Pentagon might punish NATO members not supporting American operations in the Iran war. Spain, among the countries under scrutiny, refuses US forces access to its bases or airspace for the conflict.

Sanchez voiced that Spain adheres to international law, rejecting US-Israeli actions in the Iran conflict. Despite Pentagon musings on suspending Spain from NATO, an official NATO suspension mechanism doesn't exist, but all 32 members must agree for joint actions.

Amidst Trump's dissatisfaction with NATO allies' role in the Iran war, EU leaders are exploring diminished US-NATO commitments under Trump's presidency. EU officials devised plans to bolster European security independently, should any member state require aid, leveraging capabilities beyond NATO's military domain.

(With inputs from agencies.)