US Considers Establishing Forward Military Base in Israel Amid Gulf Security Concerns

The US military is contemplating relocating operational defense and attack units to Israel due to the vulnerability of American bases in the Gulf region to Iranian and hostile attacks. This potential move, reported on June 23, 2025, aims to enhance the survivability of US forces in the Middle East and may involve expanding an existing airbase in the Negev or constructing a new base from scratch.

During peak tensions with Iran, the US deployed over 6,000 troops across Israel, some integrated within Israeli Defense Forces bases. These forces operated air defense systems and maintained US aircraft that were relocated from Gulf countries to Israel to avoid Iranian drone, rocket, and missile threats. On October 21, 2025, US forces conducted patrols near the Gaza border. Recently, the US slightly reduced its troop presence in Israel following a memorandum of understanding, lowered alert levels, and decreased likelihood of renewed intense conflict with Iran.

US defense and military representatives have informed Israeli officials of plans to extend supply contracts at least until 2030, with possible further extensions based on operational needs. A security source familiar with US military relations revealed that the US is reassessing its Middle East deployments, considering moving entire units to more secure and remote bases, including in Israel.

On January 25, 2026, US Central Command commander Admiral Brad Cooper met with IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir in Israel. Some Israeli security officials support establishing a permanent US military presence, which would require air defense coverage and strengthen long-term strategic ties between the two militaries and governments. Proposed options include expanding a Negev airbase with a dedicated US area using IDF infrastructure or building a new base to host all US military units.

However, Israeli civil aviation authorities have expressed dissatisfaction with the US military's use of civilian runways and airstrips during the conflict, citing negative impacts on the flexibility of civilian air traffic operations in Israel.