Some of the US fighter aircraft being deployed to the Middle East amid the escalating confrontation between the US and Iran are expected to land at bases in Israel, Kan News reported on Sunday morning.

A US official told Kan News that the deployment includes additional F-35 and F-16 squadrons, with the buildup expected to be completed in the coming days once logistical preparations are finalized. The move is part of a broader U.S. military buildup in preparation for a further escalation with Iran.

The fighter deployment comes as dozens of U.S. aerial refueling aircraft arrived in Israel over the weekend to strengthen American offensive and defensive capabilities in the region.

Despite the significant military buildup, aviation officials say operations at Ben Gurion Airport are not expected to be disrupted.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Transportation Minister Miri Regev directed that the U.S. refueling aircraft not be based at Ben Gurion Airport. Instead, they will be stationed at Israeli Air Force bases and Ramon Airport, preserving valuable parking stands for civilian airlines and helping prevent delays or flight cancellations during the peak summer travel season.

Meanwhile, approximately 15 U.S. aircraft are expected to depart Ben Gurion Airport over the coming week, leaving about 20 American aircraft at the airport. The move is being carried out in accordance with a cabinet decision intended to ensure that Ben Gurion continues operating normally despite the heightened security situation.

Industry officials emphasized that while U.S. aircraft will still be permitted to land at Ben Gurion Airport for refueling and other limited operational purposes, they will not be allowed to occupy parking positions needed for civilian airline operations. The policy is designed to balance Israel’s security requirements with the need to maintain uninterrupted passenger traffic and regular flight schedules.

(YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)