Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni called on NATO allies to maintain unity on Friday, as tensions emerged within the alliance over the ongoing Iran conflict and reported disagreements between the United States and Spain.
Speaking to reporters during an EU summit in Nicosia, Meloni said: “NATO must remain united. I believe it is a source of strength.”
Her remarks followed reports that the United States was considering measures against Spain over its refusal to support operations linked to the Iran war. According to a Reuters report citing a U.S. official, the Pentagon had examined possible steps that could include suspending Spain from NATO cooperation frameworks. However, alliance rules do not allow for the suspension or expulsion of member states.
Spanish prime minister Pedro Sánchez responded by saying he was “not worried,” insisting that Spain remained a “reliable member” of NATO.
Some NATO members, including France, Spain and Italy, reportedly declined to allow U.S. military aircraft involved in the Iran conflict to use their airspace or bases. The United Kingdom initially restricted access as well but later permitted limited use for defensive operations.
U.S. president Donald Trump has repeatedly criticised NATO allies for not contributing more to the Iran campaign, describing their stance as a “betrayal.” He also unsuccessfully urged European allies to deploy naval forces to the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway that Iran has effectively restricted.
