Italy Closes Sicily Air Base to US Military Flights in Iran Operations

According to Italian media reports, Italy has denied the United States permission for its military aircraft to land at an air base in Sicily before departing for the Middle East.

The Corriere della Sera newspaper reported that several US bombers planned to land at the Sigonella air base earlier this week but were denied permission because the US had not requested authorization or consulted with Italian military leaders.

The US-Italy bilateral defense agreement requires parliamentary approval for the use of Italian air bases in combat missions.

In a statement, the office of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Palazzo Chigi, reiterated that Italy acts in full compliance with existing international agreements and with the policy guidelines expressed by the Government to Parliament.

The government noted that all requests are examined "on a case-by-case basis" and stated that there are "no critical issues or frictions with international partners," describing the US-Italy relationship as "solid and based on full and loyal cooperation".

The government will therefore continue to operate within the framework of existing treaties, in accordance with the will of the Government and Parliament, while at the same time ensuring international reliability and the full protection of national interests.

This decision comes at a time when former US President Donald Trump continues to exert pressure on European allies over the war with Iran, slamming NATO countries for their reluctance to support joint US-Israeli operations.

Spain has also refused to allow American aircraft to use its bases or fly in its airspace, deeming the strikes against Tehran a violation of international law.

Earlier this month, Trump threatened to "cut off all trade" with Madrid over the country's opposition to the ongoing conflict.

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated on Cadena SER radio that Spain has a common trade policy with its European partners and belongs to a single market.

Albares emphasized European solidarity, stating that any trade coercion against Spain is coercion against all Europeans.

US Senator Lindsey Graham urged Trump to consider removing US military bases from countries that do not allow their use, calling Spain's refusal an "insult and outrage".

Senator Lindsey Graham, on the X platform, urged former President Trump to consider moving US aircraft from Spain to a country that the United States can rely on in times of need.

The situation highlights the existing tensions in international relations and the importance of bilateral agreements and defense cooperation.

Italy's decision to deny access to its air base in Sicily underscores the complexity of military alliances and the need for careful consideration of national interests and international commitments.