Trump Threatens to Cut Trade with Spain Over Iran War Stance
Since the conflict in West Asia, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has reiterated his opposition to the US-Israel joint military strikes
Washington DC: US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reiterated his stance on cutting trade with Spain over the NATO ally’s refusal to allow the use of its military bases for operations linked to the war with Iran.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said Washington may take economic measures against Madrid over its position. “We may cut off trade with Spain,” the US President said when asked about bilateral ties.
Since the conflict in West Asia, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has reiterated his opposition to the US-Israel joint military strikes that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, on February 28.
Sanchez has emphasised that his government stands firmly against war. “This government is consistent in its principles and values: No to war,” he said.
Trump also spoke about the broader conflict with Iran, asserting that US military operations had inflicted significant damage. “Our military is the best. It's the most powerful in the world, and they're hitting them very hard. Forty-seven years of abuse and killing lots of people, killing and maiming,” he said.
Commenting on maritime security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy transit route, Trump expressed confidence that the situation would stabilise. “I think you're going to see great safety. We have decimated that country. They're paying a big price now,” he said.
The US President also claimed that American forces had targeted Iran’s naval capabilities, particularly vessels allegedly used for mine-laying operations. “We took out just about all of their mine ships in one night,” Trump said.
Earlier, Trump said in a post on Truth Social that the US had destroyed 10 inactive mine-laying ships along the Strait of Hormuz after reports suggested that Iran had deployed mines in the waterway.
“I am pleased to report that within the last few hours, we have hit, and completely destroyed, 10 inactive mine-laying boats and/or ships, with more to follow!” the post said.
In a separate remark, Trump referred to a newly announced oil refinery project in Texas, suggesting the investment was a result of his administration’s policies.
This came after Trump on Tuesday announced the opening of a new oil refinery in 50 years with investment support from Reliance Industries. In a post on Truth Social, he said the refinery would fuel American markets, strengthen national security, and boost energy production.