Secretary of State Marco Rubio sharply criticized NATO allies on Monday for refusing American forces access to military bases and airspace amid the ongoing war with Iran.

In an interview with Al Jazeera aired earlier today, Rubio singled out Spain, a NATO member the United States is pledged to defend, for "denying us the use of their airspace and bragging about it, denying us the use of their bases." He questioned the alliance's value, stating, "If NATO is just about us defending Europe if they're attacked, but them denying us basing rights when we need them, that's not a very good arrangement."

Rubio, a longtime NATO supporter, emphasized that the alliance provides the U.S. with "basing rights [that] give us leverage and give us flexibility and operational capability all over the world." He warned that such denials would force a re-examination of U.S. commitments, adding, "All of that is going to have to be re-examined." Rubio also declared, "Without the U.S., there is no NATO."

Spain's decision came amid its government's strong opposition to the U.S.-led campaign against Iran, now in its second month. Defense Minister Margarita Robles announced that Spanish airspace was off-limits to U.S. planes involved in the conflict and that jointly operated bases could not be used. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the war as "illegal, reckless, and unjust," urging all parties to end hostilities.

The U.S. operation targets Iran's air force, navy, missile launchers, and production facilities for drones and missiles. Rubio said objectives would be met "in weeks, not months," with the Strait of Hormuz to be kept open "one way or another." He noted ongoing indirect talks with Iran through intermediaries but insisted Tehran must abandon nuclear ambitions and terrorism sponsorship.

President Donald Trump echoed Rubio's frustration, threatening to cut trade with Spain over the base denial. The remarks highlight tensions in U.S.-Europe relations since Trump's return to office, including disputes over NATO defense spending. Spain allocates 2.1% of GDP to defense, below the alliance's 2% guideline.

NATO has not commented, directing questions to member states. Rubio contrasted U.S. support for Ukraine, "Not to defend America, to defend Europe," with the lack of reciprocal aid in the Middle East.