Italy has blocked a U.S. military plane from landing at the Sigonella air base in Sicily amid the ongoing war involving the United States and Iran. 

The refusal came because the United States did not seek prior approval from Italian authorities before the aircraft arrived. 

Under Italian law and treaties, military landings linked to combat operations require government and sometimes parliamentary authorization. 

Officials said the aircraft were en route to the Middle East when permission was denied. 

Italy stressed that its decision was based on legal procedures, not a break in diplomatic ties with the U.S. 

This move follows similar actions by other European countries limiting military support related to the conflict.