Austria has rejected multiple US requests to use its airspace for military operations against Iran, citing neutrality laws, Austrian Defense Ministry spokesperson Colonel Michael Bauer announced on 2 April.
“There have indeed been requests, and they were refused from the outset,” Bauer said in a statement reported by public broadcaster ORF, adding that “every time a similar request involves a country at war, it is refused.”
A Defense Ministry spokesperson confirmed there had been “several” requests from Washington but did not specify the number, noting that each case is assessed under Austria’s legal obligation to avoid involvement in active wars.
The ministry added that Austria is not enforcing a blanket ban but is reviewing overflight requests individually in coordination with the Foreign Ministry.
Still, officials emphasized that neutrality remains the main guiding principle behind each decision.
Opposition figures in Austria have called for an even stricter stance, with Sven Hergovich saying Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner “should not approve a single further US military flight to the Gulf,” warning the war is harming “Austrian economic interests, Europe as a whole, and world peace.”
US President Donald Trump criticized European allies as “very unhelpful” and said Washington would “remember” their refusal to support military efforts to take control of the Strait of Hormuz from Iran.
The move places Austria among a growing group of states restricting US military access as Washington and Tel Aviv continue their assault on Iran, favoring either diplomacy over military operations to end the fighting.
Earlier, Italy had also restricted US military access, denying warplanes permission to land at the Sigonella Air Base after flight plans were submitted mid-air without prior approval.
Officials said the request fell outside existing agreements and lacked authorization, prompting Rome to block the landing except in case of emergencies.
Italian political figures had stressed that Italy “is not at war with Iran and does not want to enter it.”
Earlier, Spain had also barred US-linked warplanes involved in strikes on Iran from using its airspace and bases for combat operations, rejecting all related flight plans, including refueling missions.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said Madrid had denied access for “this illegal war,” while allowing limited logistical support under existing agreement obligations, and also maintaining exceptions for emergencies.
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