Italy Denies NATO Secretary General Rutte's Claims

Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi. Tajani stated that they have not engaged in any military initiatives against Iran and that Italian bases have not been used for war. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte had claimed that 500 US planes from Italian bases participated in the Operation Epic Fury. Tajani denied these allegations, stating that only logistical flights were permitted.

I spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Arakchi. Italy has always adhered strictly to its agreements with the US, never engaging in any military initiatives against Iran and never permitting the use of its bases for war.

Tajani also requested that Arakchi work towards reopening the Strait of Hormuz and allowing Italian cargo ships to pass.

I requested the complete reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and permission for all Italian cargo ships that are currently being blocked to pass.

Opposition parties in Italy strongly criticized Rutte's statements, while Defense Minister Guido Crosetto also denied the claims.