Satellite images captured by the European Space Agency (ESA) on 19/5 and released on 22/5 show at least 50 refueling and transport aircraft at Ben Gurion international airport in Tel Aviv. According to the Financial Times, these aircraft belong to the US and Israeli militaries.

The number of military aircraft at Ben Gurion airport steadily increased before the US-Israel offensive against Iran, which began on 28/2. By early March, 36 refueling aircraft were present, a number that grew to 47 when the ceasefire took effect on 8/4.

Positions of military aircraft at Ben Gurion airport on 28/2, 3/5, 29/4, and 19/5. Photo: FT, ESA.

The presence of military aircraft at Ben Gurion airport is typically kept confidential; an airport employee was disciplined for posting photos of them to a group on the WhatsApp messaging application. However, the large number of aircraft parked made them visible to passengers on civilian planes during takeoff and landing, as well as to people traveling on the nearby highway.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) did not respond to requests for comment. US Central Command (CENTCOM), the agency responsible for US military operations in the Middle East, declined to comment.

Ben Gurion airport is one of Israel's most heavily guarded locations, having repeatedly faced attacks from Iran and its proxy groups. Israel's multi-layered air defense system, combined with US support, has repelled multiple attacks targeting the facility.

Nevertheless, Iranian ballistic missiles and the Houthi armed group have on several occasions penetrated US-Israel defenses, striking Ben Gurion airport.

In January, approximately 1,5 million passengers arrived at and departed from Ben Gurion airport. The facility closed to most international flights during the conflict and resumed operations after the ceasefire took effect.

Earlier this month, Shmuel Zakay, director general of the Israel Civil Aviation Authority, complained to the government that "transforming Ben Gurion airport into a military base for the US has harmed the business operations of Israeli airlines, which frequently have to park their aircraft abroad."

Ramon civilian airport, significantly smaller than Ben Gurion, is also being used to park military aircraft. It remains unclear why the US is not deploying its forces at Israeli airbases, such as the strategic Nevatim airport in the country's south.

Israel's Channel 12 reported this week that negotiations are underway for US refueling aircraft to continue being stationed at Ben Gurion airport, at least until the end of 2027. Experts warn that this arrangement risks turning the facility into a target for attacks.

Nguyen Tien (According to FT, AFP, AP)