If the US is frustrated with allies, where does that leave Spain and the UK?

Recent reports of internal discussions within the Pentagon have raised fresh questions about tensions within NATO. Spain is among the countries mentioned in a leaked email, first reported by Reuters, which explores possible responses to allies who have not supported Washington’s position on Iran. In a note expressing frustrations with allies, the email outlines the possibility of a suspension of Spain from NATO.

But Spain is not alone in the list of names; in recent weeks, the UK has also faced heavy criticism from US President Donald Trump, following a broader pattern of frustration with traditional allies.

Not just Spain: A wider problem inside NATO

While Spain’s reported restriction on the use of bases like Morón and Rota has drawn attention, the underlying issue goes further. Trump has been outspoken about frustrations with allies like Spain and the UK, claiming they are not pulling their weight during the Iran conflict that began in late February of this year. 

Overall, Washington’s message has been consistent: Allies are not doing enough.

The increased pressure on NATO allies by President Trump puts both Spain and the UK on the spot in the Iran conflict, even if their foreign policy approaches are not identical.

Could this pressure actually unite Spain and the UK?

Paradoxically, pressure from the US can sometimes push countries to work more closely together; Spain and the UK already cooperate on defence and security measures, despite political differences. If both find themselves under scrutiny from Washington, there may be more incentive to maintain a strong bilateral coordination within NATO, rather than drift apart.

At the same time, differences in how each country responds to US pressure could still create friction.

What about sensitive areas like Gibraltar?

Ongoing cooperation around Gibraltar and regional security depends on stable relations. If tensions inside NATO deepen, even small disagreements can take on greater significance, especially in strategically sensitive areas.

That said, there is not yet any indication of immediate change on the ground.

How serious is the situation?

Despite the alarming concept, for now, the idea of any country being expelled from NATO remains highly unlikely. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has dismissed the reports, while NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has acknowledged growing frustration within the alliance.

In addition, NATO’s founding treaty does not include a clear mechanism for expelling member countries. This means that any attempt to expel a member would result in political and legal turmoil.

The bigger picture

What this episode really represents is a shift in tone. In recent weeks, the US has been applying pressure on other countries more openly, and long-standing allies are no longer automatically aligned on every issue.

For countries like Spain and the UK, the challenge is no longer just about their relationship with Washington, but rather how they navigate an alliance that is becoming more strained and complex.

When it comes to tensions within NATO, much will depend on whether US pressure translates into concrete policy shifts, or whether it remains just that: an email.