NATO has confirmed that its founding treaty contains no provision for suspending or expelling member states, following reports suggesting the United States had considered punitive measures against Spain over its stance on Iran-related military actions.
The clarification comes after Reuters reported that an internal US Department of Defense email had explored possible ways to penalize allies deemed insufficiently supportive of Washington’s campaign against Iran. The email reportedly included proposals to reassess diplomatic positions on longstanding geopolitical issues, including the UK’s claim to the Falkland Islands.
A NATO official told the BBC that the alliance’s treaty “does not foresee any provision for suspension of NATO membership, or expulsion,” effectively ruling out any formal mechanism to remove a member state.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez dismissed the reports, stating that Spain bases its policy on official government positions rather than internal communications or leaks. He reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to cooperation within international law while maintaining its decision not to support the use of its bases for strikes on Iran.
The reported tensions come amid increasing friction between the United States and European allies over military involvement in the Iran conflict. US officials have criticized European nations for not contributing enough to operations affecting the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently urged European allies to take greater responsibility, stating that reliance on US protection “is over” and calling for stronger European military engagement.
Meanwhile, European leaders have emphasized unity within NATO. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stressed the importance of strengthening the alliance’s European pillar while maintaining cooperation with the United States.
Germany also reaffirmed that Spain’s membership in NATO is not in question, rejecting any suggestion of suspension or removal.
The internal US discussions reportedly did not propose withdrawal from NATO or closure of American bases in Europe but reflected broader concerns about burden-sharing within the alliance.
The controversy underscores ongoing strategic disagreements among NATO members as global tensions continue to rise.
