An internal Pentagon email has outlined a series of potential measures to pressure NATO allies following disagreements over support during the war with Iran, including the possibility of suspending Spain from the alliance, according to a U.S. official cited by Reuters in an exclusive.
The document, circulating at senior levels within the Pentagon, reflects mounting frustration in Washington over what it sees as insufficient backing from some European partners during the conflict. Specifically, the concerns center on access, basing and overflight rights—known as ABO—which U.S. officials described as a minimum expectation within NATO cooperation.
Among the options discussed is the suspension of “difficult” countries from key NATO roles, with Spain singled out due to its refusal to allow U.S. forces to use its bases or airspace for strikes against Iran. The United States maintains significant military facilities in Spain, including Naval Station Rota and Morón Air Base.
While the proposal to suspend Spain would likely have limited operational impact, the memo suggests it could carry substantial symbolic weight, signaling a tougher stance toward allies seen as falling short of expectations.
The email also reportedly raises the possibility of reassessing U.S. diplomatic support for certain European territorial claims, including Britain’s sovereignty over the Falkland Islands. Such a move would mark a significant shift in long-standing U.S. policy.
The internal discussions come amid broader tensions within NATO, a 76-year-old alliance that has faced renewed scrutiny during the Iran conflict. U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized European allies for not contributing naval forces to efforts aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route disrupted by the war.
Trump has also openly questioned the future of U.S. participation in NATO, saying earlier this month that he was considering whether to withdraw from the alliance altogether.
Despite the strong language, the Pentagon email does not propose a U.S. exit from NATO or the closure of American bases in Europe. However, it underscores a growing belief within the administration that the alliance must become more reciprocal.
Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson echoed that sentiment, stating that the U.S. would ensure the president has “credible options” to ensure allies “do their part” and that NATO does not become a “paper tiger.”
European governments, including Britain and France, have argued that directly supporting U.S. military operations against Iran could amount to entering the war. However, they have indicated willingness to assist in securing shipping routes once a ceasefire or broader resolution is achieved.
The memo’s proposals, according to the U.S. official, are intended to reduce what the administration views as a “sense of entitlement” among European allies and to reinforce expectations of mutual defense and cooperation within NATO.
