A new debate has erupted in Italy after NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said US aircraft took off from Italian bases during operations against Iran. The Italian government denied authorizing combat missions, and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Rome clarified to Tehran that it did not permit war operations from its territory.
The Zioneer has tracked this dispute closely. On June 24, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte told Fox News that 500 U.S. military aircraft took off from American bases in Italy to support Operation 'Epic Fury' against Iran. Italy swiftly rebuked the claim, with Defense Minister Guido Crosetto saying Rome authorized only technical and logistical flights. On June 26, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni escalated the attack, accusing Rutte of presenting a 'confused and misleading' description of Italy's role. The renewed debate, reported by a channel tracking the Arab world, adds to the political pressure on the Italian government, which insists it did not participate in combat operations. The row underscores tensions between NATO allies over the extent of support for the U.S. campaign against Iran.
- DevelopingItaly rebukes NATO chief Rutte, says only non-combat flights were approved
- StrongNATO chief Rutte: 500 US aircraft launched from Italian bases to back 'Epic Fury' operation
- StrongMeloni escalates attack on NATO chief Rutte over 'confused, misleading' Italy account
- DevelopingIran accuses NATO of complicity in 'illegal war of aggression' after Rutte comments
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