SPAIN PERSPECTIVE

El País reveals the behind-the-scenes details of a silent power struggle. Even before the strikes on February 28, intense negotiations took place between Madrid and Washington over Spain's role. The Pentagon had deployed at least 15 KC-135 tanker aircraft to the bases in Rota and Morón, in Andalusia. Madrid blocked everything: no takeoffs, no air transit, no in-flight refueling for aircraft linked to operations in Iran. The only exception: emergency situations. El País adds a fascinating technical detail: the B-2 Spirit bombers that depart from Whiteman (Missouri), strike Iran and return nonstop in 30 hours do not cross Spanish airspace — they pass through the Strait of Gibraltar in transit, which Spain cannot prevent. But Madrid nonetheless provides navigation support from the air control center in Seville. Spain walks a tightrope: it rejects the war it qualifies as "illegal" while maintaining its NATO commitments for the defense of Turkey and Cyprus. Sánchez emerges as the most vocal Western leader against the war, with a "No to war" that recalls Spain in 2003 — except this time, Madrid is taking action. Trump has already threatened Spain with a trade embargo after the bases refusal in early March. Sánchez responded by wearing a "Make Science Great Again" cap — a barely disguised diplomatic troll. The looming question: will Trump follow through on his threats? Spain exports to the USA for 15 billion euros, but the USA imports much more from Europe via Spanish bases. The balance of power is the reverse of what Trump claims. Madrid knows this — and that's why Sánchez can say no.