Italy refuses U.S. aircraft use of Sicily base for Middle East operations
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RIYADH, March 31, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Italy has refused permission for U.S. military aircraft to use the Sigonella air base in Sicily for operations linked to the Middle East, an official said.
The aircraft were intended to land at the base before continuing toward the region, the official said, adding that the case involved U.S. bombers.
Under agreements governing U.S. military use of bases in Italy, Rome must be consulted and grant approval before such operations can proceed.
The request was denied because Italian authorities were not alerted in time and the aircraft involved included bombers, the official said.
