An internal memorandum from the US Department of Defense reveals options for retaliatory measures against NATO members that did not provide support to Washington in a military campaign against Tehran. Among the sanctions being considered are suspending Spain’s membership in the alliance and reconsidering the American position on the Falkland Islands in favor of Argentina. The document reflects growing Pentagon frustration that some allies refused to grant use of their airspace and bases for operations, calling that “the absolute minimum obligations to NATO.”
At the heart of the dispute is the unwillingness of several European countries to comply with US requests for access to air bases and airspace for military aircraft involved in operations against Iran. US officials emphasize that the goal of the proposed measures is not to break the alliance but to compel partners to take a more active role. President Donald Trump has previously criticized allies for refusing to send naval forces to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which was closed due to the conflict.
Washington’s particular displeasure was sparked by Madrid’s decision to close its airspace to American and Israeli aircraft heading to strikes on Iran, and to prohibit their departures from US bases located on Spanish territory — Rota and Morón. Suspending Spain’s NATO membership is being considered as a symbolic but highly painful step that, Pentagon strategists believe, should demonstrate the seriousness of America’s intentions.
As leverage against the United Kingdom, officials are discussing a reassessment of the traditional American support for British claims to the Falkland Islands. This move is directly connected to criticism of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whom Trump publicly called a “coward” and unfavorably compared to Winston Churchill. Argentina, whose president Javier Milei is considered an ally of Trump, has long disputed sovereignty over the archipelago.
Pentagon spokesperson Kingsley Wilson said the department is preparing “reliable options” for the president so that allies are “not just a force on paper, but fully meet their obligations.” Secretary of Defense Pete Hegset emphasized: “The war with Iran has revealed a lot,” alluding to parts of the alliance being unwilling to act together. While the document does not call for a complete US withdrawal from NATO or the closure of European bases, it marks a serious crisis of trust within the bloc.
Commentary on the news
- What strategic importance does the Strait of Hormuz have for Iran and the global economy? — The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow maritime passage through which about 20% of the world’s oil trade transits. For Iran it is a critical lever of influence: control over the strait allows Tehran to threaten to cut off oil shipments, which would immediately affect global prices and energy security. For the global economy it is the “oil throat,” where any conflict can trigger a worldwide crisis.
- Why did Spain decide to close its airspace to flights connected with military action against Iran despite NATO membership? — Spain seeks to distance itself from direct involvement in the conflict so as not to put its interests at risk (for example, from potential attacks on its military bases or trade routes). This does not contradict NATO membership: Spain is not blocking the alliance, but is refusing to allow its territory to be used for specific operations, citing national sovereignty.
- How does Iran use control over the Strait of Hormuz as leverage in its conflict with the US? — Iran regularly threatens to close the strait in response to sanctions or military escalation, creating market uncertainty. This lever allows Tehran to pressure the US and its allies into negotiations, since any conflict in the strait threatens to paralyze global oil trade. Tactically, Iran uses displays of military force (missiles, mines, fast boats) to underscore its ability to block the passage.
Full version: Reuters: Pentagon weighing options to punish NATO countries over Iran war