Italy Denies US Bombers Landing at Sigonella Base Over Iran War
Key Takeaways
- Italy denied U.S. military aircraft landing rights at Sigonella ahead of Iran-war flights.
- Corriere della Sera reported some U.S. bombers planned to land at Sigonella; Crosetto denied access.
- Spain closed its airspace; Italy's move signals wider European limits on U.S. military movements.
Italy Blocks Sigonella Landing
Italy denied landing rights to US military aircraft at Sigonella after determining the flights were linked to the Iran war.
Defense Minister Crosetto ordered the denial because the flights were not covered by the bilateral treaty.
The move came despite Italy being a close Trump ally.
Treaty Limits Use for Combat Missions
Sigonella is formally Italian but hosts US forces.
Use is regulated by bilateral agreements allowing logistical use but not combat transit without authorization.
There was a 1985 precedent when Italy opposed a US request.
Spain Also Closes Airspace
Spain closed its airspace to US planes involved in the Iran war.
Trump criticized France for refusing overflights.
Political Reactions Tense
Opposition leader Schlein called for a clearly stated guideline.
Meloni's office stressed relations with the US were solid.
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