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Trump Pressures Spain, UK to Join U.S.-Iran Conflict

3/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump urged Spain and the United Kingdom to join the U.S.-Israel war against Iran.
In a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Trump criticized European allies as uncooperative, including Spain.
Merz supported Trump's stance and urged a united front against Iran.
Trump claimed U.S. operations in Iran are progressing well and threatened to alter trade agreements with Spain due to its lack of military support.

History

Historical Context

In 1953, the U.S. and Britain orchestrated a coup in Iran, toppling Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh, who had nationalized the oil industry. This operation, known as Operation Ajax, aimed to curb Soviet influence and protect Western oil interests. The coup reinstated Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, leading to decades of U.S.-Iranian tensions, a legacy that continues to shape geopolitical dynamics today.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump urged Spain and the United Kingdom to join the U.S.-Israel war against Iran.
In a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Trump criticized European allies as uncooperative, including Spain.
Merz supported Trump's stance and urged a united front against Iran.
Trump claimed U.S. operations in Iran are progressing well and threatened to alter trade agreements with Spain due to its lack of military support.

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