US requests refueling aircraft stay at Ben Gurion Airport until year-end, causing operational strain
The US has requested that dozens of its refueling aircraft remain stationed at Ben Gurion Airport in central Israel until the end of the year, causing major operational difficulties as they occupy most available parking areas, Israeli media reported. The situation could prevent foreign airlines from increasing flights to Israel.
The US has requested that dozens of its refueling aircraft remain stationed at the Ben Gurion Airport in central Israel until the end of the year, Israel's Channel 12 reported on Monday. The presence of the US aircraft is causing major operational difficulties at Ben Gurion Airport, "as they are occupying most available parking areas within the airport," the report said.
Impact on aviation
The situation at Ramon Airport in the south is similar, the channel cited Civil Aviation Authority chief Shmuel Zakai as saying. "If these aircraft are not evacuated in the near future, Israel is expected to face a difficult summer in the aviation sector, as this could prevent foreign airlines from increasing the number of flights to Israel."
Regional context
The developments come amid an expanding US military presence in Israel alongside continued regional tensions linked to the war with Iran and the possibility of renewed military confrontation. Regional tensions have escalated since the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran in February. A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, but talks have failed to produce a lasting agreement.
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Trump's position
President Trump has postponed a planned military attack on Iran after requests from Gulf leaders, stating that "serious negotiations" are underway.
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