Spain defends NATO role after reported US ouster threat 

WASHINGTON, Apr 24: The United States is considering possible measures against NATO allies it views as failing to support its war on Iran, including Spain and the United Kingdom, according to a US official cited by Reuters, in a move that has drawn swift pushback from European leaders.

An internal email circulating within the US Department of Defense outlines options such as suspending Spain from NATO and re-evaluating Washington's stance on the British-controlled Falkland Islands, also claimed by Argentina, the official said on condition of anonymity.

The message reportedly criticises what it describes as "a sense of entitlement on the part of the Europeans" and is intended as a signal to NATO partners. It adds that suspending Spain would carry symbolic weight but have little operational consequence for the US military.

Speaking at an EU leaders' summit in Cyprus on Friday, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez rejected the suggestion, insisting his country remains a committed ally.

"Spain is a reliable member within NATO" that fulfils all its obligations, he said, adding: "I am absolutely not worried."    �"AGENCIES