Italy has refused permission for U.S. military aircraft to land at a key air base in Sicily before heading to the Middle East, according to a source familiar with the matter.

The decision αφορά the Sigonella base, a strategic installation in southern Italy frequently used by U.S. forces. Reports indicated that American aircraft had been expected to stop there en route to operations in the region.

Lack of authorization cited in decision

According to the source, permission was not granted because the United States had not formally requested authorization, nor had Italy’s military leadership been consulted, as required under existing agreements governing the use of U.S. bases on Italian soil.

The report, first published by Corriere della Sera, did not specify how many aircraft were involved or when the request would have taken place.

Government under pressure over military involvement

The move comes amid growing political pressure within Italy over the country’s potential involvement in Middle East conflicts.

Centre-left opposition parties have called on the government to block the use of Italian bases by U.S. forces, warning against being drawn into military operations.

Meloni government signals need for parliamentary approval

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government has said it would seek parliamentary authorization before approving any such requests in the future.

Italy’s defense ministry has not issued an official comment on the reported decision.