US deploys F-22s and military refuelling aircraft in Israel

Jerusalem (ANTARA) - The United States has deployed F-22 fighter jets and dozens of military refuelling aircraft at various military facilities and airports in Israel.

Israeli media described the deployment as an unprecedented military move.

Israel’s public broadcaster KAN, on Tuesday (26 July), cited Israeli security sources stating that Washington would maintain the deployment until at least the end of this year, alongside US military forces already stationed across the Middle East.

The broadcaster said satellite imagery analysed over recent months showed unprecedented US fighter jet and refuelling aircraft deployments in Israel.

According to the report, F-22s are stationed at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel, while dozens of US refuelling aircraft are at Ben Gurion and Ramon airports.

The aircraft are spread across multiple locations and are not expected to be withdrawn for now. Israeli media reported concerns over the impact on civilian aviation and local airport capacity.

Previously, Israeli Channel 12 reported that dozens of US refuelling aircraft at Ben Gurion and Ramon airports have already affected airport operations and flight ticket prices.

The report also warned that continued deployment could complicate Israel’s summer travel season and hinder foreign airlines from adding flights.

The unusual large-scale US deployment in Israel has been maintained since the ceasefire with Iran took effect last month.

Source: Anadolu