Italy defends its bases after NATO chief claims US used them for attacks on Iran

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the United States had launched around 500 aircraft from Italian bases and 4,000‑5,000 flights from other European sites to support operations against Iran. Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto rejected the allegation, stating that only technical and logistical flights permitted under bilateral treaties have taken place and that the claims are “completely wrong.” Opposition parties in Italy have called for immediate clarification.

In a related interview, U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed the incident, claimed lack of knowledge about a missile strike on a school in Minab, Iran, and defended the United States against accusations of involvement. Rutte also noted that the upcoming NATO summit will be attended by 42 nations, including nine from the Middle East and Indo‑Pacific region.