Portugal has stepped up as a reliable NATO ally, officially greenlighting U.S. military operations at the strategic Lajes Air Base in the Azores amid the escalating conflict with Iran.

Under a longstanding 1951 bilateral defense treaty—updated over decades—the United States enjoys broad rights to use the base for transit, refueling, parking, and logistics without needing case-by-case permission from Lisbon. Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel confirmed this arrangement allows “tacit authorizations” on short notice, and recent intensive activity—including fleets of KC-46 Pegasus tankers, F-16 fighters, C-17s, and C-5Ms—fully complies.

As U.S. and Israeli forces struck Iranian targets in “Operation Epic Fury,” Lajes served as a critical mid-Atlantic hub for refueling and support missions. No offensive launches originated from Portuguese soil, and Portugal imposed clear conditions: actions limited to necessary, proportional responses against military targets only.

This move reinforces transatlantic solidarity at a pivotal moment—while left-wing critics in Portugal cry “submission,” true allies recognize standing with America against Iranian aggression protects Western security and freedom.

Portugal isn’t just allowing access—it’s honoring commitments that keep the free world strong.

SOURCE FOX NEWS