Tel aviv: The US has requested that dozens of its refueling aircraft remain stationed at the Ben Gurion Airport in central Israel until the end of the year, Israel's Channel 12 reported on Monday. This development is causing significant operational difficulties at one of the country's main airports as these aircraft are occupying most available parking areas, impacting airport functionality.

According to Anadolu Agency, the situation at Ramon Airport in the south mirrors the challenges faced at Ben Gurion Airport. Civil aviation authority chief Shmuel Zakai has indicated that if the aircraft are not relocated soon, Israel could face a challenging summer in the aviation sector. This scenario might hinder foreign airlines from increasing the number of flights to Israel, affecting tourism and international connectivity.

The decision to station US military aircraft in Israel is part of a broader strategy amid ongoing regional tensions linked to the conflict with Iran. Since February, tensions have escalated following US and Israeli strikes against Iran, leading to retaliatory actions by Tehran. This has included attacks on Israel and US allies in the Gulf and the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Despite a ceasefire mediated by Pakistan on April 8, talks in Islamabad failed to secure a lasting peace agreement. US President Donald Trump later extended the truce indefinitely, citing ongoing "serious negotiations" prompted by requests from Gulf leaders. The situation remains fluid as regional powers navigate complex geopolitical dynamics.