US halts removal of refuelers from Ben Gurion Airport, but Israel says only 20 can stay

The US has halted the removal of its aerial refueling tankers from Ben Gurion Airport due to escalating tensions with Iran. However, Israel's Transportation Minister, Miri Regev, stated that only 20 US refueling planes would be permitted at Ben Gurion to prevent disruptions to commercial flights, with additional aircraft directed to Israeli Air Force bases. Regev emphasized, "We will not cancel a single ticket because of American refueling planes." This decision has reportedly angered senior US Central Command officials, who, with IDF backing, argue the tankers are crucial for regional deterrence against Iran. Despite the disagreement, Israeli officials insist there is "no crisis" between the allies, noting the issue has been discussed with US officials and Prime Minister Netanyahu.