**Israel to Receive Additional US Refuelling Aircraft Amid Escalating Conflict with Iran**
Israel is set to bolster its military capabilities with the arrival of more US refuelling aircraft, as confirmed by an Israeli military official on Sunday. This development comes in the wake of intensified military actions between the United States and Iran, following the collapse of an interim ceasefire agreement that had been in place for about a month.
The situation has escalated significantly since the ceasefire fell apart, raising concerns about the potential for a return to full-scale conflict in the region. While Israel has not participated in the latest US strikes against Iranian targets, the Israeli military official stated that the US has opted to adjust its military presence in the area. This adjustment includes reinforcing the existing fleet of aerial refuelling aircraft stationed in Israel with additional units.
According to another senior Israeli official, dozens of US refuelling planes are expected to arrive in the country as part of this military reinforcement strategy. The US Embassy in Jerusalem has not yet provided a comment regarding this development.
The ongoing conflict, which began with US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28, has led to a significant US military buildup in Israel, including the deployment of numerous refuelling aircraft. Reports from Axios, citing three US and Israeli officials, indicate that the Trump administration has notified Israel of the impending arrival of additional refuelling planes, likely in preparation for a potential escalation of military operations against Iran.
To minimize disruptions to civilian air traffic and in consideration of operational and logistical factors, the US has chosen to station some of the refuelling aircraft at Israeli Air Force bases, as well as at commercial airports. This decision aims to balance military needs with the functioning of civilian aviation, particularly at Ben Gurion Airport, Israel's primary international gateway.
In May, Sharon Kedmi, the director general of the relevant authority, noted that approximately 70% of operations at Ben Gurion Airport were being affected due to the space and resources occupied by US military activities. Following these concerns, the US agreed to relocate some of its aircraft to Israeli Air Force bases to alleviate the impact on civilian air traffic.
As tensions continue to rise in the region, the arrival of additional US refuelling aircraft is seen as a strategic move to enhance Israel's military readiness and response capabilities amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are anticipated as both the US and Iran continue to engage in military operations.