Pentagon considers Spain's withdrawal from NATO - Thoughts on punishments for allies who did not support the war on Iran
An internal Pentagon email reveals options the United States is considering to punish NATO allies that have not provided sufficient support for U.S. operations in the war with Iran. These include suspending Spain's membership in the alliance and reviewing the U.S. position on Britain's claim to the Falkland Islands, a U.S. official told Reuters.
The memorandum expresses frustration with what Washington calls the reluctance of some allies to grant access, basing and overflight rights for operations in Iran. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the proposals include excluding “difficult” countries from key positions in NATO.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized NATO allies for, as he claims, failing to contribute to the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, which has remained closed to ships since the start of US-Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28.
According to the same official, the email does not mention the possibility of a US withdrawal from NATO, nor does it suggest closing US bases in Europe. However, it remained unclear whether a partial withdrawal of forces from the continent was being considered.
The Pentagon spokesman confirmed that the Department of Defense is working to "provide the president with credible options" to ensure that allies contribute meaningfully.
The US-Israeli war with Iran has raised serious concerns about the cohesion and future of NATO. Analysts and diplomats fear that the US may not respond to a potential attack on European countries.
Britain, France and other European countries believe that participating in the US naval blockade would be tantamount to direct involvement in war. However, they have said they are ready to help maintain navigation in the Strait of Hormuz after a ceasefire or end of the conflict.
Trump administration officials have stressed that “NATO cannot be a one-way street.” The options outlined in the email are intended, the official said, to send a strong message to European allies to “limit the sense of privilege.” Suspending Spain’s NATO membership, while having limited operational impact, is seen as sending a strong political message.
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