Italy Refuses US Use of Air Base for Iran Operations, Defense Minister Says

Rome: Italy’s Defense Minister Guido Crosetto has refused to allow the United States to use the Sigonella Air Base in Sicily as a transit hub for military operations in the Middle East against Iran, according to Italian media reports.

The report, published by Corriere della Sera, was also confirmed by sources close to Italy’s Ministry of Defense. It stated that Italy was informed about the U.S. plan only after American aircraft were already en route, with no prior permission sought despite Italy being a NATO ally.

Crosetto made it clear that Italy would not permit the use of its territory or facilities for operations targeting Iran.

Meanwhile, Spain has also taken a similar stance, reportedly closing its airspace to U.S. military aircraft involved in strikes against Iran. Spain’s defense authorities stated that their bases and airspace would not be used for operations against Iran.

The developments highlight growing divisions among Western allies over military actions in the Middle East.