France and Italy have resisted certain U.S.-Israeli military actions, according to sources, as U.S. President Donald Trump criticised European NATO allies for their lack of support in the month-long conflict with Iran, exposing growing divisions.
The developments come amid strained relations between Washington and key partners. Earlier in the conflict, Trump labelled long-standing NATO allies as “cowards” for their limited backing, and on Tuesday he again criticised countries that declined to assist in U.S.-Israeli strikes. He specifically accused France of blocking aircraft carrying military supplies to Israel from transiting its airspace, calling the move “very unhelpful.”
The French presidency expressed surprise at the remarks, stating that its decision aligns with its consistent stance since the conflict began. Sources indicated that France’s refusal—reportedly the first of its kind since late February—followed Israel’s request to use French airspace to transport U.S. weapons for operations against Iran.
Israel’s defence ministry accused France of obstructing the transfer of munitions despite prior coordination, warning that the move could impact European security. In response, Israel said it would halt defence procurement from France and suspend future military engagement, although French arms exports to Israel are relatively limited.
Italy has also taken a cautious stance, reportedly denying permission for U.S. military aircraft to land at the Sigonella air base in Sicily en route to the Middle East. However, Defence Minister Guido Crosetto denied any policy shift or rift with Washington, clarifying that U.S. forces can still operate from Italian bases but require specific approval for activities outside existing agreements.
Spain has been among the most outspoken critics of the strikes, defending its decision to close its airspace to U.S. aircraft involved in operations against Iran. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Defence Minister Margarita Robles reiterated that Spanish bases would only be used for NATO’s collective defence.
Trump also criticised Britain for not participating, despite its reliance on energy routes affected by tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Germany—home to the largest U.S. military base in Europe at Ramstein—initially placed no restrictions on U.S. operations, though the issue has sparked internal debate, with President Frank-Walter Steinmeier reportedly questioning the legality of the war.
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