US deploys 14 refueling aircraft to Israel amid escalating regional tensions

Fourteen US aerial refueling aircraft landed in Israel over the weekend, a move that significantly bolsters the American military presence in the region. This arrival signals an acceleration of US military build-up amid ongoing tensions and exchanges with Iran. Israeli media, citing an unnamed Air Force source, reported that the US intends to deploy as many as 100 refueling aircraft to bases across Israel, including potentially operating from civilian airports like Ben Gurion Airport if necessary.

The source indicated that further escalation of US military operations against Iran would necessitate additional refueling aircraft. Currently, 33 US refueling aircraft are already stationed at Ben Gurion Airport, raising concerns about potential disruptions to civilian air traffic during the peak summer travel season. While Israeli authorities have not officially confirmed the total number of US refueling aircraft deployed, the build-up is evident.

This increased US military activity follows a period of heightened regional tensions. Last month, a Pakistani-mediated memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran aimed to de-escalate hostilities, but tensions flared again last week near the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a fresh exchange of attacks. The deployment of refueling aircraft is seen as a strategic move in this volatile geopolitical landscape.