Italy did not join Iran war, Meloni tells NATO chief after 500 aircraft claim

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni pushed back against NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte’s description of Italy’s role during the Iran conflict, saying his comments created a misleading impression about Rome’s involvement.

Rutte had said in a Fox News interview that Italy provided significant support to US-Israeli military operations by allowing around 500 US military aircraft to use Italian bases during the conflict. The remarks triggered criticism from Italian opposition parties, which accused Meloni’s government of contradicting its earlier position that Italy was not involved in the war.

Meloni said Rutte had blurred the distinction between logistical support and direct military involvement.

"In his — let's call it enthusiastic — account, the secretary-general has lumped together things that are actually quite different from one another, confusing the types of authorised flights," she told reporters, according to Politico.

Rejecting suggestions that Italian bases were used for attacks on Iran, Meloni reiterated that Rome only allowed technical and logistical activities.

"We did not participate in the conflict with Iran. By the way, if we had participated in the Iran conflict, there would be no explanation for this disappointment that the US president keeps reiterating very often," she said.

She also questioned why Rutte provided what she called an "oversimplified account" of Italy's role.

"Probably it was an attempt to prepare in the best way the next NATO summit, but, in any case, I think one needs to be cautious when talking about these matters," Meloni said.

NATO spokesperson Allison Hart later clarified that Rutte was referring to logistical and technical support under existing agreements and did not suggest that Italy directly participated in military strikes against Iran.

The dispute comes amid continued criticism from US President Donald Trump, who has accused European allies of failing to support Washington during tensions with Iran.

Trump recently questioned Italy’s commitment to NATO, claiming Rome refused to provide access to military infrastructure during the conflict.

"After spending Trillions of Dollars on NATO, Italy, and its Prime Minister, wouldn't even think of becoming involved with the Islamic Republic of Iran and their very serious Nuclear Threat. For decades, we defend them but, when tested, they are not there to defend us, and the rest of the World. Not good!" Trump wrote.

Meloni has rejected Trump's criticism, saying Italy's position was based on protecting national interests.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also raised the issue with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Meloni said Iranian officials understood that the controversy was the result of a misunderstanding.

The dispute comes as Washington and Tehran continue discussions following a ceasefire agreement and a 60-day negotiation period aimed at addressing tensions over Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security.

Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!

Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.

Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.