US Refueling Jets Leave Bulgaria After Iranian Threats

Bulgaria has confirmed the withdrawal of two US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft from the Bezmer Air Base, a move that follows direct threats from Iran. The aircraft, which were temporarily deployed to support US military logistics in the region, departed on Friday.

Iran had issued stern warnings to nations providing territory for US military operations, stating that American bases, aircraft, and infrastructure in the region could become legitimate targets for Iranian ballistic missiles and drones. This warning specifically put Bulgaria, which had agreed to host the refueling aircraft, in a precarious position.

The deployment of up to eight KC-135 aircraft and approximately 250 US military personnel was approved by the Bulgarian parliament on July 22 as part of an agreement on the joint use of military facilities. The KC-135s are crucial for mid-air refueling, enabling extended operational ranges for combat and other military aircraft, thus representing a significant logistical support element for US operations.

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Iran je poslao ozbiljno upozorenje svim državama koje Washingtonu ustupaju svoj teritorij za vojne operacije: američke baze, zrakoplovi i vojna infrastruktura u regiji mogli bi postati legitimne mete iranskih balističkih projektila i dronova.

Tehran's reaction was swift and severe. The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs communicated through diplomatic channels, condemning Bulgaria's decision and urging an immediate reconsideration. Iran warned that Bulgaria could be considered complicit in US military campaigns and potentially in "aggression and war crimes" if its territory were used for operations against Iran.

The situation is particularly sensitive for Bulgaria, a NATO member allied with the United States. The decision to host the US aircraft, while framed as logistical support, placed the country under direct threat from Iran, raising concerns among local residents about the base becoming a target. The withdrawal suggests Bulgaria opted to de-escalate the situation and avoid potential conflict.

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Bugarski parlament prethodno je, 22. srpnja, odobrio američki zahtjev za privremeni razmještaj do osam zrakoplova KC-135 i približno 250 američkih vojnika u zračnoj bazi Bezmer.