US military aircraft arrive at Ben Gurion Airport as Iran tensions escalate

2026-02-23 - 23:22

US aerial refueling aircraft touched down at Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv on Monday evening, Israeli media reported, as military preparations intensify alongside diplomatic efforts ahead of Thursday's scheduled nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Images broadcast by Channels 12 and 13 showed the US military planes shortly after their arrival at Israel's main international airport. Military Buildup and Diplomatic Countdown The deployment comes amid an unprecedented US military buildup in the Persian Gulf region and a series of military drills by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in recent days. The new round of Omani-mediated talks in Geneva follows weeks of indirect diplomacy and escalating rhetoric, with President Donald Trump warning of military action against Iran if a nuclear deal is not reached within 10 to 15 days. Strategic Posturing The arrival of US refueling aircraft in Israel signals Washington's capacity to project air power across the region should diplomacy fail, extending the range and endurance of combat aircraft in any potential operation. The move aligns with broader US force positioning, including naval assets and additional fighter jets deployed to the region in recent weeks. Israeli officials have been consulting closely with American counterparts on Iran contingencies, with the Security Cabinet meeting Sunday to assess war risks and media reporting that Israel would receive a US "green light" to retaliate immediately if attacked. Critical Talks Ahead Thursday's Geneva meeting represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing nuclear standoff, with both sides expressing contrasting assessments of progress. While Iranian officials describe the atmosphere as "more constructive," US Vice President JD Vance has noted Tehran remains unwilling to engage on key American "red lines." The convergence of military preparations and diplomatic deadlines underscores the high stakes, as Washington demonstrates readiness for either outcome—a negotiated agreement or potential military confrontation.