Italy Denies NATO Chief's Claims on Aircraft Use Against Iran

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg's assertion that Italy permitted 500 U.S. military aircraft to operate from its bases against Iran has sparked political controversy in Rome. Stoltenberg made the remarks in an interview with Fox News, suggesting that allies were making their bases available for such operations.

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One country after another, one ally after another, put their bases at the disposal of the operations.

This statement directly contradicts the Italian government's position. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto refuted Stoltenberg's claims, asserting that only flights adhering to established bilateral agreements, primarily for technical and logistical support to the Middle East, were authorized. Crosetto described Stoltenberg's message as "completely misleading."

However, the opposition in Italy remains unconvinced. Angelo Bonelli, a Green Party lawmaker, accused Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of deceiving the Italian public and parliament. He called for immediate clarifications and a parliamentary briefing on the matter.

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only flights that were in compliance with the relevant agreements were allowed

Stoltenberg also praised Romania for prioritizing military refueling aircraft over commercial traffic at Bucharest airport and described the financial contributions of NATO member states as "enormous" and "impressive," without providing specific figures. The remarks come as the U.S. plans to partially withdraw troops from Europe, encouraging European nations to assume greater responsibility for their security.

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Meloni deceived the Italian citizens and Parliament.