Italy has increased its national air and missile defense readiness to the highest level as tensions grow in the Middle East. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto announced the measure while speaking to parliament, explaining that the decision was taken after recent military incidents in the region, including missile activity near Turkey and strikes affecting Cyprus. According to Crosetto, the situation is unpredictable and requires maximum vigilance, noting that in such a volatile environment “anything can happen.”
The move comes as conflict escalates following attacks involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Governments across Europe have begun increasing security measures, while NATO has also been closely monitoring missile threats and drone activity across the eastern Mediterranean. Italy’s decision to strengthen its air defenses is part of a broader effort to coordinate with allies and prepare for possible spillover effects from the conflict.
Authorities have also ordered stronger monitoring of sensitive locations across the country. Police and security officials have been instructed to increase surveillance around American military installations in Italy as well as sites connected to the defense industry. The precaution aims to prevent protests, sabotage, or other security incidents that could arise during the international crisis.
Italy hosts several key U.S. and NATO facilities that play a strategic role in Mediterranean and European security. Among the most important are Aviano Air Base in northeastern Italy and Naval Air Station Sigonella in Sicily. Aviano hosts the U.S. Air Force’s 31st Fighter Wing and F–16 squadrons, making it one of the main American air combat hubs south of the Alps. Sigonella, located near Catania, supports more than 40 U.S. military commands and operations in the Mediterranean and Middle East.
Another major installation is Ghedi Air Base in northern Italy, about 15 kilometers from Brescia. The base is operated by the Italian Air Force and is home to modern aircraft such as the F–35A Lightning II. It is also one of six NATO bases in Europe believed to host B61 nuclear weapons as part of the alliance’s nuclear sharing program.
Italian leaders have stressed that any decision allowing the United States to use bases in Italy for direct military operations would require approval by the Italian parliament, following existing bilateral agreements. For now, officials say no formal request has been made.
At the same time, Italy is preparing to assist partners in the Middle East by providing air defense systems to countries facing missile and drone threats. The government says the goal is purely defensive – protecting allies, stabilizing the region, and safeguarding thousands of Italian citizens and roughly 2,000 troops currently stationed in the area.
As the crisis continues to unfold, Italian authorities say the strengthened alert level will remain in place while the government monitors developments and coordinates with NATO and European allies.
