Spain Resists U.S. Pressure to Join Red Sea Naval Coalition
Spain has reaffirmed its decision not to join the U.S.-led naval coalition in the Red Sea, despite increasing diplomatic pressure from Washington. The coalition, known as Operation Prosperity Guardian, aims to counter Houthi militants in the region.
In December 2023, the Spanish government announced it would not participate in the operation. The decision has been met with persistent appeals from U.S. officials to reconsider. Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff CQ Brown reportedly urged Spanish Chief of the General Staff Teodoro López Calderón to “rectify” the decision in a recent telephone conversation. Additionally, U.S. Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro communicated with Spanish Ambassador Santiago Cabanas, pressing for Spain’s involvement.
Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles responded firmly to the pressure, stating, “No country tells Spain what to do.” She emphasized that Spain, as a sovereign nation and vital NATO ally, has the right to make independent decisions based on its national interests.
The conflict in the Red Sea has intensified following the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Palestine in Gaza. The Houthi group has declared its intention to disrupt navigation to Israel in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea until humanitarian aid is allowed into the Gaza Strip.
Spain’s stance reflects a careful assessment of its foreign policy priorities and commitments. By choosing not to participate in Operation Prosperity Guardian, Spain underscores its commitment to autonomous decision-making in international affairs.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
