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Spain and Italy pushed back against reports suggesting the United States is weighing steps against NATO allies, including a possible expulsion scenario. The United Kingdom rejected speculation over any shift in its Falklands stance, as tensions over the Iran conflict ripple through the alliance.
Speaking on the sidelines of an EU meeting in Greek Cyprus, Pedro Sanchez described Spain as a "reliable member" of NATO and said the government remains fully aligned with its obligations.
He downplayed the reports, stressing that Madrid bases its position on official statements rather than internal communications, and added that cooperation with allies continues within the framework of international law.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also stepped in, urging allies to hold the line. Speaking to reporters at the same EU summit, she warned against deepening divisions, saying, "NATO must remain united. I believe it is a source of strength.
The remarks came after Reuters revealed internal Pentagon emails discussing how to respond to NATO allies that stayed out of U.S.-Israeli military operations targeting Iran.
According to the report, Washington reviewed a range of options, including measures aimed at countries such as Spain, France and Italy, which limited the use of their airspace and military facilities during the conflict.
U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized NATO partners for holding back, framing their stance as a breach of alliance expectations.
Efforts to secure broader European involvement, including naval deployments to the Strait of Hormuz, have not gained traction, leaving visible gaps between Washington and several European capitals.
In London, officials pushed back as well, as the same report also floated revisiting Washington’s position on the Falkland Islands as part of broader options targeting allies that stayed out of the Iran conflict.
A spokesperson for the British prime minister reiterated that sovereignty over the islands "rests with the UK" and that self-determination remains unchanged, Sky News reported.
They added that the position is long-standing, has been consistently conveyed to U.S. administrations, and stressed Britain will not be "pressured" or "dragged into" the Iran war.
NATO is set to hold its next summit in Türkiye on July 7–8, with leaders gathering in Ankara at a critical moment for the alliance, as divisions over the Iran conflict and broader transatlantic tensions are expected to shape the agenda.
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