Italy has refused permission for a United States military aircraft to land at the Sigonella air base in Sicily before proceeding to the Middle East.
An Italian government official confirmed the development on Tuesday, noting that the decision was based on procedural requirements rather than any breakdown in relations between both countries.
According to reports, some US bombers had planned to stop at the Sigonella base last week, but their flight plan was not communicated in advance to the Italian Air Force general staff. The aircraft also did not receive the necessary authorization to land.
Officials explained that the flights were not classified as logistical operations and therefore were not covered under the bilateral agreement governing US military bases in Italy. Under the terms of that arrangement, only logistical and technical activities are automatically permitted, while other operations may require additional government or parliamentary approval.
Defence Minister Guido Crosetto clarified that the decision was not a blanket denial of access to US forces. He described claims that Italy had blocked all American use of its bases as “false,” stressing that both countries operate within the framework of a 1954 treaty that clearly defines such procedures.
He added that international agreements distinguish between operations that are automatically authorised and those that require specific government approval.
The Italian government also emphasised that requests for base access are reviewed individually. A statement from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s office reiterated that the decision should not be interpreted as a conflict with Washington, noting that such evaluations are standard practice.
