Italy has refused to allow the United States to use the Sigonella base

Italy has denied the United States use of the Sigonella base. The incident, which took place a few days ago, was reported by Corriere and confirmed by informed sources. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto’s refusal came when news emerged of the flight plan for certain US aircraft, which was due to land at Sigonella before departing for the Middle East. However, no one had requested authorisation or consulted the Italian military leadership: the plan was in fact communicated whilst the aircraft were already in flight, and checks revealed that these were not routine or logistical flights and are therefore not covered by the treaty with Italy.