Italy Denies Landing to US Military Aircraft Involved in Iran Conflict

Italy has refused permission for several American military aircraft involved in the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran to land at the Sigonella Air Base in Sicily. The incident reportedly occurred several days ago, with the decision allegedly made personally by Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto.

The denial was issued while the US bombers were already airborne and heading toward Sicily. The aircraft were expected to land at Sigonella before proceeding to the Middle East. However, Italian command was not notified of the flight plans in advance, and no necessary consultations took place, which led to the refusal.

The Sigonella military airfield is located in eastern Sicily and hosts both an Italian Air Force base and a United States Navy installation. The base is also utilized by other NATO countries.

This move by Italy follows a similar stance from Spain. On March 30, Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles stated that Spain is closing its airspace to American aircraft participating in the conflict involving Iran.

"We do not authorize the use of military bases or airspace for actions related to the war in Iran," Robles said.

According to sources cited by Spanish media, Madrid is not only prohibiting fighter jets and refueling aircraft involved in US-Israeli military operations against Iran from using bases at Rota and Morón de la Frontera in southern Spain but is also denying access to American aircraft deployed from third countries like Britain and France. Overflight or landing permissions will only be granted in emergency situations.