Italy Refutes NATO Claim of 500 U.S. Flights from Its Bases Amid Iran Tensions

Italy’s foreign minister Antonio Tajani said Rome has not taken part in any military action against Iran and has never authorised the use of its bases for combat missions. He urged the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to allow Italian merchant ships to pass and highlighted the symbolic importance of reopening Italy’s embassy in Tehran.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte claimed that about 500 U.S. aircraft had flown from Italian bases for the “Epic Fury” operation against Iran. Italy’s defence ministry countered the statement, saying the comment was misleading. Under the existing bilateral agreement, Italy permits only logistical and technical flights from its bases and has refused requests for combat missions, such as the use of the Sigonella airfield by U.S. bombers. The dispute has sparked criticism from opposition parties and calls for a parliamentary inquiry.

The episode reflects broader diplomatic friction between European NATO members, the United States and Iran over the escalation of hostilities in the Middle East.