01 Apr 2026 - 10:27
The Kabul Tribune (KT) - France, Italy and Spain have pushed back against aspects of U.S. and Israeli military operations in the ongoing war with Iran, highlighting growing divisions between Washington and key NATO allies, sources told Reuters.
U.S. President Donald Trump criticized several European allies, accusing them of failing to support U.S.-Israeli strikes and describing some as “unhelpful” in the month-long conflict. He specifically said France blocked military aircraft carrying supplies to Israel from flying through its airspace, a claim Paris said was consistent with its policy since the start of the war and not a change in position.
Italian officials were also reported to have denied permission for U.S. military aircraft to use the Sigonella air base in Sicily for operations linked to the Middle East conflict. However, Italy rejected claims of a rift, saying cooperation with the United States continues under existing agreements.
Spain has taken a more critical stance, fully closing its airspace to U.S. aircraft involved in strikes against Iran. Spanish officials said the country would only allow the use of its bases for NATO collective defense missions.
The developments come amid broader tensions within NATO over the war. Trump also criticized Britain and other allies for what he described as insufficient support for U.S. military efforts, underscoring growing strains within the alliance.
