According To Vanguard On Thursday 5 March, 2026, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has reacted sharply to threats from U.S President Donald Trump to cut off trade relations with Spain, after Madrid refused to support Washington military campaign against Iran. Sánchez compared the rapidly escalating conflict in the Middle East to a reckless gamble that could endanger millions of lives.
The diplomatic standoff emerged after Spain declined to facilitate U.S. military operations targeting Iran, a decision that drew a strong response from the White House. Trump warned that the United States could halt trade with Spain if the European nation continued to block support for American military actions.
Responding to the threat, Sánchez criticized the growing tensions and warned of the consequences of further escalation in the region. He described the situation as dangerously unpredictable, stating that it was akin to playing Russian gambling with the destiny of millions. His remarks highlighted concerns among several European leaders who fear the widening confrontation could spiral into a broader regional conflict.
The tension intensified following reports that at least 87 people were killed after a U.S submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean. Authorities said many others remain missing after the vessel went down, raising fears that the casualty figure could increase as search and rescue operations continue.
The incident has further strained already fragile relations between the United States and Iran, with analysts warning that retaliatory action could worsen the security situation across the Middle East.
Amid the growing crisis, the United States Embassy in Nigeria announced the cancellation of all visa appointments scheduled for yesterday in Abuja. Embassy officials cited a high potential for protests in the Nigerian capital as tensions between the United States, Israel and Iran continue to escalate.
Security agencies in Abuja were reportedly placed on alert following the embassy decision, as authorities monitor the situation and prepare for possible demonstrations linked to the international crisis.