The silent treatment

THE Spanish government has been forced to defend itself in the light of allegations that it has been allowing B52 bombers to fly over and refuel in the air over Spain. This is an extraordinary state of affairs considering that the government of Jose Maria Aznar has pledged its full support to the allied coalition fighting in Iraq. With French airspace being blocked it was only natural that the B52s would fly over Spain. Presently, this is Spain's only real military connection with the war being fought in Iraq. I can understand some of the concerns being expressed by the population but I would also draw their attention to their PM's tough stance. Spain made it clear from the start that it would not be sending troops and the U.S. has not asked for permission to base its B52s at its two Spanish bases. I would say that aircraft flying over Spanish airspace is a small price to pay for backing the coalition. Infact it is quite amazing how Prime Minister Aznar has gone silent over the issue of Iraq. Before the shooting started his rherotic was on a par with Tony Blair and George W. Bush. Now he has gone silent.
Naturally, he is facing an important backlash in Spain at the moment with opposition to the war running at 80 percent. But I am sure that in these difficult times a message of support from the Prime Minister would be welcomed by his coalition partners. Spain elected to join the coalition but has taken a rather back-seat role.
Perhaps Aznar is waiting until times improve to give his verdict. But that is not exactly the role of a full ally.