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[INTERNATIONAL] · Italy, Saudi Arabia · 6 sources

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Italy relocates military aircraft from Saudi Arabia's Taif base

Italy has begun relocating military assets from the Taif airbase in Saudi Arabia following a missile strike that damaged an Italian Eurofighter jet. The incident occurred during the night of September 17-18 at the King Fahd airbase.

Defense Minister Guido Crosetto confirmed that while the strike caused material damage to the aircraft, no Italian military personnel were injured. The relocation is being described by reports as a restructuring of the Italian Task Force Air Arabia deployment rather than a full withdrawal. The move includes the transfer of Eurofighter jets and at least two C-130J military transport aircraft to undisclosed safer locations.

Approximately 500 Italian military personnel remain at the base, and Rome is currently evaluating whether to conduct a partial or complete withdrawal of its forces. Reports indicate that Yemeni leadership has communicated to Italian officials that they do not intend to enter a war with Italy, while questioning the presence of Italian aircraft in Saudi Arabia.

Entities

Giorgia Meloni · Guido Crosetto · Italy · Saudi Arabia · Taif Air Base · Taif Airbase

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