France has restricted U.S. military overflights related to the ongoing war in Iran, aligning with similar actions taken by Spain and Italy earlier this month.

The French government denied permission for aircraft carrying American weapons destined for Israel to traverse its airspace, a decision confirmed by President Donald Trump and French sources. This marked the first such refusal since the U.S.-led conflict with Iran began on February 28. A French presidency official described the move as consistent with Paris's longstanding policy, expressing surprise at Trump's public rebuke.

Spain acted first on March 30, closing its airspace to all U.S. planes involved in strikes against Iran and prohibiting the use of key bases at Rota and Morón for such operations. Defense Minister Margarita Robles told parliament that the restrictions applied specifically to Iran-related activities, emphasizing that the bases serve NATO collective defense, not unilateral campaigns.

Italy followed suit the next day, denying landing rights at the Sigonella air base in Sicily for U.S. bombers en route to the Middle East. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto explained that the requests lacked prior authorization required under the 1950s treaties, which necessitate parliamentary approval for war-related transits. Italian officials stressed that U.S. access for routine operations remains intact.

These developments highlight deepening fissures between the Trump administration and some NATO allies amid the Iran conflict, which U.S. officials describe as having severely weakened Tehran's capabilities. Trump lashed out on Truth Social, accusing France of being "VERY UNHELPFUL" and urging European nations to show "delayed courage" by securing vital routes like the Strait of Hormuz without U.S. assistance. He extended criticism to Spain, Italy, and the UK, warning that America would "REMEMBER" their stances.

European leaders pushed back against suggestions of a broader rift. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's office affirmed that decisions adhere to international agreements and are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been outspoken against the U.S. and Israeli operations, framing Madrid's position as opposition to escalation.

The restrictions complicate U.S. logistics, as European hubs like Sigonella, Rota, and French bases have long supported Middle East deployments. However, analysts note they target offensive actions specifically, sparing non-combat flights such as tankers and transports hosted at sites like Istres in France.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte acknowledged allied frustrations over limited U.S. consultations but highlighted over 30 nations engaging in maritime security. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth criticized European navies for inaction in the Gulf. As the war enters its second month, these moves signal growing European reluctance to facilitate operations viewed by some as diverging from collective defense priorities.