The United States Department of Defense is considering options to penalise NATO allies over their stance during the conflict with Iran, including the possible suspension of Spain’s participation in the Alliance, according to a Reuters report citing an internal Pentagon email.
The document, circulated among senior officials, outlines a range of policy options aimed at “punishing” allies that, in Washington’s view, failed to provide sufficient support during operations linked to the Middle East conflict. Among the scenarios under discussion are restricting certain countries from key NATO roles and reassessing US positions on strategic issues such as sovereignty over the Falkland Islands.
The email reflects frustration within the Pentagon over what it describes as reluctance by some allies to grant Access, Basing and Overflight (ABO) rights, which are considered essential for military coordination within the Alliance. According to the report, the document states that providing ABO support represents the minimum level of obligation expected from NATO members.
It remains unclear which countries beyond Spain could be affected by the proposed measures. The email also reportedly explores the broader exclusion of “difficult” allies from significant NATO responsibilities, though no comprehensive list is provided.
Donald Trump has repeatedly criticised NATO allies for what he sees as inadequate military contributions, particularly regarding naval deployments to secure shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz following its closure to international traffic after the outbreak of hostilities on 28 February. He has also publicly floated the possibility of the United States withdrawing from NATO.
However, the Reuters report notes that the internal Pentagon email does not propose a US exit from NATO, nor does it recommend closing American bases in Europe. There is also no indication at this stage of a reduction in US troop presence across the continent.
Responding to Reuters, Pentagon spokesperson Kingsley Wilson said that despite US efforts to support its allies, they “did not stand by” Washington. He added that the Department of Defense would ensure the president is presented with “credible options” to encourage allies to meet their obligations, while declining to comment further on internal deliberations.
Source: protothema.gr