European Allies Split Over Role in Iran Conflict as Trump Criticises NATO Partners

Divisions have emerged among Western allies over the ongoing conflict in Iran, with France and Italy pushing back against certain US-Israeli military operations, according to sources familiar with the matter. The disagreements come as Donald Trump criticised European NATO members for what he described as a lack of support.

The tensions highlight growing strains within the alliance after more than a month of fighting. Earlier in the conflict, Trump labelled some long-standing NATO partners as “cowards,” and on Tuesday he renewed his criticism of countries that have not backed US and Israeli military actions.

France has come under particular scrutiny after Trump accused it of blocking aircraft carrying military supplies to Israel from flying over its territory. Writing on his Truth Social platform, he said France had been “very unhelpful.”

The French presidency said it was surprised by the comments and maintained that its actions were consistent with its position since the conflict began on February 28. A Western diplomat and other sources said France’s refusal over the weekend marked the first such decision since the start of the war. According to those sources, Israel had sought to use French airspace to transport US weapons intended for operations against Iran.

Israel’s defence ministry accused France of obstructing the transfer of munitions despite prior coordination, warning that the move could affect broader security cooperation. It said Israel would suspend future defence procurement from France, though analysts note that French arms exports to Israel are relatively limited.

Italy has also taken a cautious stance. Sources said Rome denied permission for US military aircraft to land at the Sigonella air base in Sicily before continuing to the Middle East. Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto later denied any policy shift, stating that US bases remain operational but require specific approval for missions beyond existing agreements.

Spain has been the most outspoken critic among European allies. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has opposed the US-Israeli strikes, while Defence Minister Margarita Robles confirmed that Spain would only allow the use of its bases for NATO’s collective defence. Spain has also closed its airspace to US aircraft involved in attacks on Iran.

Trump also criticised the United Kingdom, accusing it of failing to support military operations and suggesting countries facing fuel shortages due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz should take independent action.

Other NATO members, including Germany, have taken a more neutral stance. Germany has allowed continued US use of its Ramstein air base, though political debate has emerged over the legality of the conflict after comments from President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.

The differing positions underscore a widening gap within NATO over the handling of the Iran conflict, raising questions about alliance unity as the war continues.