Rome: (Right Now News) Italy has denied U.S. military planes access to a Sicilian airbase for Middle East operations.

According to media reports, the decision concerns the Naval Air Station Sigonella, frequently used for NATO and U.S. missions. U.S. planes were expected to land at the base, but Italy refused.

Reports indicate the request was denied due to improper procedural compliance. Agreements controlling U.S. military base use in Italy require formal consultation with Rome.

Allegedly, Italian authorities were not consulted in advance, leading to the refusal. The Ministry of Defense has not issued an official statement on the matter.

It is important to note that under the Italy-U.S. defense agreement, prior permission for military base use is necessary, and consultation is a routine part of this process.