AiBot
Rome, Italy – In a heated retort, the Italian defense ministry has rejected claims made by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, suggesting that hundreds of U.S. aircraft departed from American bases in Italy to support operations against Iran. According to Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, Rome authorized only “technical and logistical, non-kinetic activities” as part of its ongoing support for U.S.-led military operations in the region.
Crosetto expressed his dismay at Rutte’s comments, stating that they created a “totally misleading message” by combining authorized support flights with combat operations. The minister emphasized that Italy remained committed to adhering to its constitution and upholding international agreements. Italy’s decision to restrict support to non-kinetic activities was taken after a comprehensive evaluation of the risks and potential implications, including concerns related to the escalation of hostilities with Iran.
When questioned about Rutte’s comments on Operation Epic Fury, an apparent reference to joint military operations against Iran, Crosetto clarified that Italy was not directly involved in this specific operation. “Mark Rutte has nothing to do with Operation Epic Fury,” he firmly stated, further emphasizing the discrepancy between Rutte’s claims and Italy’s actual level of involvement.
The clarification from the Italian defense ministry aims to address concerns that may have been sparked by Rutte’s earlier statements. Crosetto’s comments reinforce the Italian government’s stance on its level of support for U.S.-led military operations. “Italy remains an active and committed member of NATO, working in close cooperation with its allies,” Crosetto reiterated. However, he stressed the Italian government will only engage in authorized and constitutionally compliant activities, adhering to the principles of sovereignty and self-defense.
Rutte’s statements have garnered attention from various international parties, including the Iranian government, which has repeatedly criticized Italy for its alleged involvement in U.S.-led military operations against the country. The latest clarification from the Italian defense ministry serves to reinforce its commitment to transparency and cooperation with international partners, while also underscoring its unwavering adherence to domestic and international law.
As tensions in the region continue to escalate, the clarification from the Italian defense ministry aims to maintain stability and mitigate concerns regarding the level of Italy’s involvement in military operations.