LISBON: Portuguese prosecutors have opened an investigation into whether the government lawfully authorised US use of the Lajes Air Base in the Azores during the conflict with Iran.
Opposition complaint triggers investigation
The inquiry follows a complaint by members of Portugal’s Left Bloc. A longstanding bilateral arrangement allows US use of the base in peacetime, while active hostilities require Portuguese authorisation.
Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel has defended the decision, saying approval was based on US assurances that operations would be defensive, necessary, proportionate and limited to military targets.
Strategic base under legal scrutiny
Lajes is an important transit hub for US and NATO operations. Opening an investigation does not establish that the government acted unlawfully; prosecutors will assess the complaint and relevant law.
Follow Europe news on NewsNationOnline. Source: Reuters.
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