US President Donald Trump has attacked America's allies, particularly France and the UK, over their reluctance to get involved in the Iran war.
In a post on his social media company Truth Social, Trump blamed France for being “VERY UNHELPFUL” in the killing of Iran’s then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on Feb. 28, when Washington and Tel Aviv launched airstrikes on the country.
“The Country of France wouldn’t let planes headed to Israel, loaded up with military supplies, fly over French territory. ... The USA will REMEMBER,” he said.
In return, French President Emmanuel Macron’s office said Tuesday it was “surprised” by Trump’s criticism of France, stressing the country’s position on US military overflights had not changed, according to AFP.
“We confirm this decision, which is consistent with France’s position since the start of this conflict,” the Élysée Palace said.
“France has not changed its position since day one,” the presidency said.
Unlike Spain, Paris had not officially announced a ban on US aircraft involved in the conflict flying over its territory.
The French military said in early March that US military support jets had been allowed to use an air base in the south of France, adding it had “full guarantees” they were not involved in Iran strikes.
In another post, Trump singled out the UK for criticism while urging other countries to take action in the Strait of Hormuz, the vital oil route that Iran has effectively blocked during the war.
“All of those countries that can’t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you,” Trump wrote.
“Number 1, buy from the US, we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.”
“You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself, the USA won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!,” he wrote.
Meanwhile, Italy refused authorization for some US aircraft headed to the Middle East on a combat mission to land at its Sigonella base.
Reports indicated that US aircraft, including bombers, were expected to land at the base before continuing toward the Middle East, though details about timing and scale remain unclear.
According to reports, the request was denied because proper authorization procedures were not followed.
Under agreements governing US military use of bases in Italy, Rome must be formally consulted and grant approval before such operations can proceed.
Italian authorities were reportedly not consulted in advance, prompting the refusal. The defense ministry has not issued an official public statement on the matter.
Meanwhile, Italian opposition parties have urged the government to prevent US use of Italian bases to avoid being drawn into escalating conflict in the Middle East.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government has maintained that any such decisions would require parliamentary approval, signaling a cautious approach amid rising regional tensions.
Italy’s Sigonella base is located in eastern Sicily, south of the city of Catania.
