The use of Lajes Air Base (Base Aérea das Lajes) to refuel American planes bound for Middle East operations has stirred a parliamentary controversy, with questions about whether Portuguese conditions on use were met. Experts quoted by outlets dispute the government account that flights were limited to refuelling and not used in attacks; Paulo Rangel will be heard in Parliament at the request of PS and PAN while Livre and Bloco seek explanations. Residents in the Azores and those following defence policy should watch parliamentary hearings for any diplomatic or base-access implications.