Italy has called for unity within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) following reports of discussions over possible measures against Spain.
Speaking on the sidelines of a European Union leaders’ summit in Cyprus, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the alliance should remain cohesive and avoid divisions among member states.
“I don’t view the idea of Spain leaving NATO positively,” Meloni told reporters. “I think NATO must remain united; it’s a source of strength.”
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez had earlier said he was not concerned by reports of any move against Spain, maintaining that the country remains a dependable member of the alliance.
He added that while Spain values cooperation with its allies, the government would continue to act within the framework of international law.
The reports followed Spain’s decision not to permit the United States to use its bases or airspace for strikes on Iran. Italy and France were also said to have taken a similar position.
Reuters reported that an internal Pentagon email outlined options for possible responses toward NATO partners that opposed the ongoing U.S. military operation.
According to the report, the options included calls for Spain’s suspension from NATO and a review of the United States position on Britain’s claim to the Falkland Islands.
Argentina has continued to seek renewed talks with the United Kingdom over the Falkland Islands, also known as Islas Malvinas, with President Javier Milei’s government describing British control as colonialism.
Argentine Foreign Affairs Minister Pablo Quirno said negotiations over the South Atlantic territory remain necessary to achieve a peaceful resolution.
President Javier Milei is regarded as a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly criticised British Prime Minister Keir Starmer over his position on Operation Epic Fury.
