Italy Joins Spain in Halting U.S. Military Access Amid Middle East Tensions
File photo: Sigonella Air Force base in Sicily Italy has joined Spain in blocking U.S. military aircraft from using its territory for Middle East–related operations, signaling growing European reluctance to be drawn into the escalating conflict. Italy has refused permission for U.S. military aircraft to land at the Sigonella air base in Sicily for operations linked to the Middle East, becoming the second major European nation after Spain to restrict American military movements. According to reports, several U.S. aircraft—reportedly including bombers—were scheduled to land at Sigonella before heading toward the conflict zone. However, Italy denied the request because the United States had not sought prior authorization, nor consulted Italian militar...
