Marco Rubio Questions NATO Utility After Spain Denies Basing Rights

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio questioned the utility of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) after several member states denied the U.S. military basing rights and airspace during the war with Iran. Speaking with Fox News while traveling to a summit in China, Rubio argued that the ability to project force into the Middle East and Africa via European bases is a primary benefit of the alliance. He described Spain's refusal to grant access during Operation Epic Fury as "atrocious" and "horrifying," and noted that Italy similarly blocked the use of Sigonella Naval Air Station in Sicily.

In response to these restrictions, the U.S. government has threatened Spain with a trade embargo, the withdrawal of troops, and potential suspension from NATO. Rubio emphasized that allies should not be allowed to selectively decide when to provide support, though he praised Portugal, Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria for their cooperation.

These tensions coincide with a broader Trump administration critique of European allies for their weak response to the conflict with Iran and efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The disputes follow a restructure of the NATO command framework that may reduce U.S. leadership in future emergencies. Simultaneously, President Donald Trump arrived in Beijing on May 14, 2026, to meet with President Xi Jinping to discuss the Iran conflict, trade imbalances, and Taiwan.