Donald Trump has branded Spain ‘absolutely horrible’ while threatening to withdraw US troops from the country’s shared military bases.

Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, the US president said the move would be a response to what he claims is a lack of support in the ongoing conflict with Iran.

When asked whether he might take similar action against Spain and Italy as he has threatened with Germany, he replied: ‘Yes, I probably will, why shouldn’t I?

‘Italy hasn’t helped us at all and Spain has been horrible, absolutely horrible.’

The comments come as relations between Washington and several NATO partners are increasingly strained following the escalation of the Iran conflict.

Trump has repeatedly criticised allies for what he sees as insufficient backing, particularly in relation to military operations and strategic support in the Strait of Hormuz.

Spain, in particular, has drawn the president’s ire after refusing to allow the use of its military bases for operations linked to the conflict.

Trump has also accused Madrid of failing to assist efforts to keep the key shipping route open after Iran’s actions in the region.

The US currently has around 3,200 troops stationed in Spain, mainly at the naval base in Rota (Cadiz) and the air base in Moron (Sevilla).

Spain hosts one of the largest US military presences in the EU, behind Germany, which has around 35,000 personnel, and Italy, with roughly 12,000.

Trump has already confirmed that his administration is reviewing the possibility of reducing troop numbers in Germany, and now appears to be considering extending that move to other NATO countries.

In recent days, he has gone even further, warning that the US could reconsider its commitment to NATO altogether and even threaten trade ties with Spain.

Reports have also emerged suggesting that Washington has internally discussed the possibility of suspending Spain from the alliance – despite no legal measures to do so.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.