Tensions between Washington and its European allies have resurfaced after reports suggested that the United States is considering measures against NATO partners, including Spain.
According to Reuters, internal discussions within the Pentagon have explored possible steps such as suspending or even removing Spain from NATO, though no official policy has been announced.
Spain NATO tensions linked to Iran policy
The reported frustration stems from the position of the Spanish government, which has resisted pressure to support military actions by the United States and Israel in Iran.
Madrid has so far declined to comment substantively on the reports.
“We do not act based on emails. We act based on official documents and positions, in this case those of the US government,” Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said.
Opposition calls for independent stance
The issue has also triggered reactions within Spain’s domestic political scene.
Ione Belarra, former minister for social rights and leader of the Podemos party, suggested that Spain should consider leaving NATO on its own terms rather than facing external pressure.
“It would be a great humiliation to wait for someone like Donald Trump to expel you from NATO. I believe our country should leave NATO immediately, as a sovereign decision, a decision based on dignity,” she said.
NATO framework limits unilateral action
Within NATO itself, the reports have been met with scepticism. Despite the leading role of the United States within the alliance, NATO operates as a collective organisation.
Experts note that there are no clear legal mechanisms allowing a single member state to unilaterally expel another from the alliance.
The episode highlights ongoing strains in transatlantic relations, particularly as differing national positions on foreign policy continue to test the cohesion of NATO.
