Spain has closed its airspace to United States military aircraft involved in attacks on Iran, expanding an earlier decision to deny the use of jointly operated military bases. Defense Minister Margarita Robles said the government will not authorize the use of either bases or airspace for actions related to the conflict.

The move, first reported by the newspaper El Pais, requires military planes to bypass Spain when traveling to targets in the Middle East. The restriction does not apply to emergency situations.

Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said the decision reflects Spain's stance against participating in or contributing to a war that it considers to have been initiated unilaterally and in violation of international law. The government acknowledged the step could affect relations with the United States but emphasized its commitment to its position.