The US has reportedly pulled aircraft from its Andalucia bases after Spain formally refused to support its invasion of Iran.
According to reports, Donald Trump’s administration withdrew KC-135 refuelling aircraft from the joint bases of Moron (Sevilla) and Rota (Cadiz). The aircraft are used to refuel fighter jets mid-air.
It comes after Defence Minister Margarita Robles categorically denied that the bases had provided any assistance to the US offensive.
‘Absolutely not. At the bases in Moron and Rota no type of assistance has been provided,’ she told reporters during an event in Armilla (Granada).
Regarding reports that US tanker aircraft have been relocated from Spain to other European bases, Robles said: ‘They have neither carried out nor will they carry out any maintenance or support activity here.’
She suggested the US may have chosen to move the aircraft knowing that they would not be able to operate from Spanish soil under current political conditions.
It comes amid fears that any country seen to be supporting the US and Israeli strikes could become a target for Iranian missiles.
Iran’s ambassador to Spain, Reza Zabib, was summoned by Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares after missile launches targeted British bases in Cyprus.
When asked whether the US-linked bases in Rota and Moron could also become targets, Zabib warned: ‘Our general rule is that we will respond to any aggression, wherever it occurs.’
However, he acknowledged Spain’s critical stance towards the military strikes, saying Tehran had ‘noted’ the Spanish government’s reaction.
Albares reinforced Spain’s position by urging for moderation.
‘Europe’s voice at this moment must be one of balance and moderation, working towards de-escalation and a return to negotiations,’ he said.
‘A logic of violence only leads to a spiral of violence and military actions.’
Spain’s stance is in strong contrast to Germany, France and the UK, who all signalled willingness to defend their regional interests militarily if necessary.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
