US Air Refueling Planes Grounded at Ben Gurion Airport Amid Israeli Transport Ministry Dispute

A significant crisis is unfolding at Ben Gurion Airport as 33 American air refueling planes remain parked, occupying critical spaces designated for civilian aircraft. This situation has led Israel to halt further landings of US refueling planes at the airport. Senior officials from the US Central Command (CENTCOM) have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the decision made by Israeli Transport Minister Miri Regev, stating it directly undermines the operational needs of the US military forces active in the region amid escalating tensions with Iran.

According to sources cited by i24NEWS, the US military emphasized that these refueling aircraft are vital components of regional deterrence and defense. A senior Israeli military official acknowledged the legitimacy of the US demand, describing the refueling planes as strategic assets. The Transport Ministry, through the Airports Authority, issued an unusual directive to Israeli air traffic control forbidding the landing of additional US refueling planes at Ben Gurion, highlighting the severity of the dispute and efforts to prevent further escalation.

The US KC-135 refueling planes, each valued at approximately $62.2 million, have been crucial in recent operations, including "Operation With the Lion," conducted from June 13 to 24. During this period, the Israeli Air Force carried out over 1,200 sorties against Iranian targets, with Israeli F-35I "Adir" jets refueled mid-air by these American tankers. The Airports Authority warns that if the situation remains unresolved, Israeli airlines may be forced to cancel tens of thousands of flight tickets starting early August, severely impacting passengers and the Israeli aviation sector.