ROME: Italy last week denied permission for US military aircraft to land at the Sigonella air base in Sicily before heading to the Middle East, sources said on Tuesday, because Washington had not sought prior authorization from the government in Rome.
According to the Corriere della Sera daily, which first reported the news, “some US bombers” had been due to land at the base in eastern Sicily before flying on to the Middle East, where the US is at war with Israel against Iran.
The report did not specify when the aircraft were due to land but said permission was denied because the US had not requested clearance and Italy’s military leadership had not been consulted, as required under treaties governing the use of US military installations in the country.
The source, who was not authorized to speak to the media, confirmed the report but did not specify how many aircraft were involved. A second source said that Italy refused permission on March 27.
“With reference to media reports regarding the use of military bases, the government reiterates that Italy acts in full compliance with existing international agreements and with the policy guidelines set out by the government to parliament,” a government statement said. It added all requests to use the facilities “are examined carefully, on a case-by-case basis” and said there were “no critical issues or frictions with international partners.”
“Relations with the US, in particular, are solid and based on full and loyal cooperation.”
The US Embassy in Rome had no immediate comment.
On Monday, Spain said it had closed its airspace to US planes involved in attacks on Iran, a step beyond its previous refusal to allow the use of jointly operated military bases. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has been among the most vocal critics of the US and Israeli strikes.
The prospect of the US using its military installations in Italy for the war against Iran has sparked outrage.
