Spanish Defense Minister: The US and Israel have no right to decide the rules of the world

Xinhua News Agency, Madrid, March 31 (Reporter Chen Yuzheng) Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Roflies on March 31 explained Spain’s refusal to support the United States and Israel’s military actions against Iran, saying that the United States and Israel “cannot decide what rules apply to the world.”

Roflies said in a speech in parliament that the Spanish government believes the current conflict “is outside the framework of international law,” and stressed that the government’s position is “firm and consistent.” She said Spain cannot accept “two countries dragging the entire world into their war,” and criticized the relevant military actions for lacking consultation with allies.

Roflies disclosed that the Spanish government made the decision on February 28, on the day the U.S. and Israel launched airstrikes against Iran, to restrict the use of its airspace by military aircraft involved in the relevant military actions. Spain’s first deputy prime minister and Minister of Economic Affairs, Carlos Guirbo, confirmed the measure on March 30. In addition, Spain has clearly refused to authorize the U.S. side to carry out military activities related to the airstrikes against Iran at two military bases in the country—Rota and Morón-Del A Frontre.

Roflies also stressed that Spain remains firmly committed to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization framework and the principles of multilateralism, and rejects any interpretation of its current position as a disruption to relations with allies. She said Spain’s commitment to peace is “clear and firm,” and that “it will not accept accusations or lecturing from anyone on this issue.” (End)