REUTERS, Rome

Italy last week denied permission for US military aircraft to land at the Sigonella air base in Sicily before heading to the Middle East, sources said yesterday, because Washington had not sought prior authorisation from the government in Rome.

According to the Corriere della Sera daily, which first reported the news, “some US bombers” had been due to land at the base in eastern Sicily before flying on to the Middle East, where the United States is at war with Israel against Iran.

The report did not specify when the aircraft were due to land but said permission was denied because the US had not requested clearance and Italy’s military leadership had not been consulted, as required under treaties governing the use of US military installations in the country.

The source confirmed the report to Reuters but did not specify how many aircraft were involved. A second source told Reuters that Italy refused permission on March 27.

“With reference to media reports regarding the use of military bases, the government reiterates that Italy acts in full compliance with existing international agreements and with the policy guidelines set out by the government to parliament,” a government statement said.