Israel Demands US Military Refuelers Leave Ben Gurion Airport

Israel's Airports Authority is demanding that the U.S. military vacate 19 refueling aircraft currently stationed at Ben Gurion Airport by the end of 2026. In a letter to the Ministry of Defense, Authority Director General Sharon Kedmi stated that the continued operational presence of U.S. "partner aircraft" at civilian airports is no longer feasible due to the full recovery of the aviation industry.

Kedmi emphasized that while the security and strategic importance of the U.S. aircraft is recognized, their operation alongside regular civilian air traffic, which is expected to reach pre-war levels by 2027, cannot continue in its current format. The Authority projects that by 2027, passenger traffic at Ben Gurion will necessitate the full utilization of all parking stands and air traffic slots for civilian flights.

The Authority warned that failure to remove the aircraft by the deadline could force adjustments to the flight schedule, potentially leading to the reduction or cancellation of commercial flights, with significant operational, public, economic, and legal consequences.

Similar demands have been made regarding Ramon Airport. Starting November 1, 2026, Ramon Airport will revert to normal civilian operations, ceasing to accommodate the U.S. refueling aircraft during nighttime hours. The Authority also highlighted that it currently bears the sole costs for the operation, security, and maintenance of the U.S. aircraft at Ramon, and is seeking a financial and contractual agreement to regulate their continued presence.