Israel Lifts Ban on U.S. Refueling Aircraft at Ben Gurion

The Israeli government has lifted a restriction on United States military refueling aircraft landing at Ben Gurion Airport following sharp protests from the Pentagon. The dispute began on July 14 when the United States military froze the relocation of its tankers amid escalating tensions and nightly strikes against Iran. This decision created a critical parking shortage at the airport, prompting the Israel Airports Authority to bar additional U.S. aircraft to avoid canceling approximately 50,000 airline tickets and 10 daily flights starting July 23.

Transportation Minister Miri Regev initially issued the directive to preserve civilian aviation capacity during the peak summer season, noting that 33 aircraft were parked despite a Security Cabinet agreement to limit the number to 20. U.S. Central Command officials expressed anger over the ban, arguing it undermined regional deterrence and defense. While some Israeli military officials viewed the U.S. demands as a strategic necessity, the Transportation Ministry maintained that military tankers should utilize Air Force bases.

By July 15, the restriction was rescinded after the Pentagon insisted on keeping crews on high alert. Regev confirmed that U.S. aircraft will continue operating through the airport, though the number of planes parked on-site will be reduced to an agreed-upon level. The remaining aircraft will be relocated to Israel Defense Forces bases in coordination with the Defense Ministry to ensure the continuity of both military and civil aviation.