Israel Requests US to Reduce Military Aircraft Presence at Ben Gurion Airport

TEL AVIV: Israel has reportedly asked the United States to reduce its military aircraft presence at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport amid concerns about potential disruptions to civilian air traffic during the busy summer travel season.

According to Israeli media reports, Israeli authorities have requested that Washington remove additional refueling aircraft currently stationed at Ben Gurion Airport. The request follows the reported relocation of 28 US aerial refueling planes from the airport.

Israeli officials have now reportedly called for the removal of a further 20 US military aircraft from the facility.

Media reports indicate that Israel informed the United States that the continued presence of military aircraft could interfere with civilian flight operations, particularly as passenger traffic increases during the summer months.

Israeli authorities are said to be concerned that the large number of American refueling aircraft at the airport has already affected the movement and scheduling of commercial flights.

In addition to seeking the relocation of refueling planes, Israel has reportedly requested a reduction in the overall number of US military aircraft operating from Ben Gurion Airport.

Diplomatic discussions between American and Israeli officials regarding the transfer and repositioning of the aircraft are said to be ongoing.

The developments come as both countries continue close military and strategic coordination amid evolving regional security challenges.