Italy has reportedly refused permission for US military aircraft to land at a Sicilian air base en route to the Middle East, according to a source close to the matter.
This denial, which confirms a report by the daily Corriere della Sera, concerns “some US bombers” intended for deployment in the region.
The exact number of aircraft involved and the specific timing of Rome’s refusal remain undisclosed by the anonymous source, who was not authorised to speak publicly.
Corriere della Sera further indicated that the refusal stemmed from the US failing to seek prior authorisation and neglecting to consult Italy’s military leadership, a requirement under existing treaties governing American military installations in the country.
The Italian defence ministry has yet to comment on the situation. Meanwhile, centre-left opposition parties have been vocal in urging the government to restrict the use of US bases in Italy, aiming to prevent the nation’s involvement in ongoing conflicts.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni‘s right-wing government has said it would seek parliamentary authorisation should any such requests be made.
The news comes after Spain closed its airspace to American aircraft involved in military operations against Iran.
This move marks a significant escalation beyond Madrid’s previous refusal to allow the use of jointly operated military bases.
Defence Minister Margarita Robles confirmed the move on Monday.
“We don’t authorise either the use of military bases or the use of airspace for actions related to the war in Iran,” she told reporters in Madrid.
Spanish newspaper El Pais had first reported the news on Monday, citing military sources.
The closure, which compels US military planes to reroute around the Nato member state on their way to targets in the Middle East, does not apply to emergency situations, El Pais added.
Economy minister Carlos Cuerpo addressed the decision during an interview with radio Cadena Ser, while responding to questions about potential repercussions for relations with the United States.
He said: “This decision is part of the decision already made by the Spanish government not to participate in or contribute to a war which was initiated unilaterally and against international law.”
Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez has been a vocal critic of the US and Israeli attacks on Iran, characterising them as both reckless and illegal.