Tensions between the United States and Iran have gripped global attention, casting a shadow over the Middle East. In a significant development, reports confirm that at least nine American refueling tankers have arrived overnight at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv. Israeli media outlets, citing flight tracking analysts and open-source footage, have highlighted this unusual military buildup.
The Times of Israel shared images of the aircraft stationed at the airport, underscoring the scale of U.S. military presence in the region. This week alone, multiple U.S. refuelers and cargo planes have been spotted at Ben Gurion, while 11 F-22 stealth fighters, accompanied by logistics support aircraft and aircrew, touched down at the southern Ovda Airbase.
Now, with at least 14 U.S. refuelers deployed at Ben Gurion, the stage appears set for potential escalation. These tankers could provide critical mid-air refueling support to American fighter jets operating from the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, positioned off Israel’s northern coast, should President Donald Trump authorize strikes against Iran.
In a parallel move, the U.S. State Department has issued an advisory allowing non-essential government employees and their families to depart Israel voluntarily. American citizens are urged to consider leaving while commercial flights remain available and to avoid travel to certain areas within the country. This warning comes amid stalled negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, with no breakthrough in sight.
Reports suggest Trump views Tehran as insincere about curbing its nuclear ambitions, prompting the deployment of two carrier strike groups as a show of force. As diplomatic talks loom next week, the arrival of these assets signals Washington’s readiness to back words with action, heightening fears of a broader conflict in the volatile region.