The opposition demands explanations regarding the use of the Lajes base in the Azores by the United States

José Luís Carneiro, Secretary-General of the Socialist Party (PS), accused the government on Saturday of failing to inform parties about military maneuvers at Air Base 4 (BA4) in the Azores.

BA4, located on Terceira Island in the Azores, experienced increased military aircraft traffic throughout the week. On Wednesday, the largest US Air Force cargo plane landed at Lajes to refuel. Later that afternoon, Agência Lusa reported that 11 KC-46 Pegasus tankers, 12 F-16 Viper fighters, and a C-17 Globemaster III military cargo plane were stationed at BA4.

On Friday, Defense Minister Nuno Melo refused to address the issue, stating it was not within his area of responsibility. José Luís Carneiro, in Porto district for a meeting, expressed concerns along with other opposition parties about the government’s lack of transparency regarding the use of Lajes.

Portugal and the United States have a cooperation agreement for the use of Lajes Air Base, part of a 1995 defense agreement. Some opposition parties fear Portuguese infrastructure could be used as a logistical platform for a potential US military invasion against Iran, which is not covered by the NATO alliance.

The United States is strengthening its military presence in the Middle East amid tensions and protests in Iran. Donald Trump has set a deadline for Tehran to abandon its nuclear program. US military movements in the region have escalated, with additional aircraft and troops heading towards the Middle East.

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and three guided-missile destroyers have been in the Sea of Oman since late January. More troops and military assets have been deployed to the region in response to growing tensions with Iran.

Recent military actions have raised concerns about a potential conflict escalation in the region, as the United States continues to demonstrate readiness for combat operations.