The White House said Wednesday that Spain has agreed to cooperate with U.S. military operations in the Iran War following President Donald Trump’s threat to cut off trade with Madrid.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Spanish officials responded quickly after Trump warned of economic consequences if Spain continued to restrict U.S. military access.
“With respect to Spain, I think they heard the president’s message yesterday loud and clear,” Leavitt told reporters. “It’s my understanding over the past several hours they’ve agreed to cooperate with the U.S. military, and the U.S. military is coordinating with their counterparts in Spain.”
Trump said Tuesday that he would “cut off all trade with Spain,” a day after Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said Spain would not allow the United States to use jointly operated military bases in southern Spain for strikes not authorized under the United Nations charter.
Spain had objected to the use of the bases for military action outside the scope of international law, prompting sharp criticism from Trump, who has repeatedly accused European allies of failing to support U.S. security priorities.
There was no immediate public response from Spanish officials to the White House’s statement.
This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.
In a polarized era, the center is dismissed as bland. At Newsweek, ours is different: The Courageous Center—it’s not “both sides,” it’s sharp, challenging and alive with ideas. We follow facts, not factions. If that sounds like the kind of journalism you want to see thrive, we need you.
When you become a Newsweek Member, you support a mission to keep the center strong and vibrant. Members enjoy: Ad-free browsing, exclusive content and editor conversations. Help keep the center courageous. Join today.
