Italy denies US bombers landing rights at Sicily base amid Middle East tensions

Italy has refused to grant landing rights at a Sicilian air base to US military aircraft bound for the Middle East, according to reports in the Italian press.

The newspaper Corriere della Sera reported that “a series of US bombers” had planned to touch down at Sigonella Air Base earlier this week while en route to the Middle East. However, the request was denied because the US failed to seek prior authorization or consult with Italian military leadership, the report said.

While the number of aircraft involved was not specified, the report noted that these were not scheduled or logistical flights. Under the bilateral US-Italy defense agreement, the use of Italian air bases for combat missions requires parliamentary approval.

Meloni government signals full compliance with international agreements

The office of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Palazzo Chigi, issued a statement reiterating that “regarding press reports on the use of military bases, Italy acts in full compliance with existing international agreements and the policy guidelines expressed by the government to parliament.”

The government noted that all requests are reviewed on a “case-by-case” basis. Describing the US-Italy relationship as “solid and based on full and loyal cooperation,” the statement maintained there are “no critical issues or friction with international partners.”

“The government will continue to operate within the framework of existing agreements, in line with the will of the government and parliament, while ensuring international credibility and the full protection of national interests,” the statement continued.

The decision comes as President Trump continues to pressure European allies regarding the ongoing war with Iran, criticizing NATO nations for their perceived reluctance to support joint US-Israeli strikes.

Spain has also refused to allow American aircraft to use its bases or fly through its airspace, characterizing the strikes against Tehran as a violation of international law.

Earlier this month, Trump threatened to “cut off all trade” with Madrid over its opposition to the conflict. Spanish leaders, however, have not wavered in the face of a potential economic embargo.

Madrid emphasizes European solidarity

In early March, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares told Cadena SER radio: “What does a country like Spain have to fear?”

“Spain has a common trade policy with its European partners,” Albares said. “We belong to a single market and share a currency, the euro, with other countries. When you see European solidarity, starting with the President of the European Commission, it becomes very clear that any commercial coercion against Spain is coercion against all Europeans.”

Senator Lindsey Graham, a staunch supporter of the war, called on Trump to consider withdrawing US military bases from countries that “won’t let us fly over them,” calling the Spanish refusal “an insult and a disgrace.”

“Mr. President, I think America’s interests would be better served by moving these planes from Spain to a country we can actually count on in a great time of need,” Graham wrote on the social platform X. “I trust your judgment.”