Infrastructure

Israel, U.S. Cap Ben Gurion Refueling Planes After Airport Dispute

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U.S. military aircraft at Ben-Gurion International Airport during the 2026 war with Iran. Photo by Etgar Lefkovits.

Israel and the United States agreed to reduce the number of American aerial refueling aircraft parked at Ben Gurion Airport after officials warned that congestion could disrupt civilian flights during the summer travel peak. The Transportation Ministry said surplus aircraft would move to Israeli Air Force bases while necessary U.S. military operations continue. Two reports put the final cap at 20 aircraft by July 21. A Hebrew report said 21 aircraft would remain by July 22 after four extra planes leave promptly and eight more depart, while an Airports Authority warning said continued congestion could threaten about 50,000 tickets.

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