U.S. Air Force aerial refueling tanker KC-135 [EPA=Yonhap News]

There are observations that the United States is deploying dozens of aerial refueling tankers to an Israeli airport in preparation for a resumption of airstrikes on Iran.

The British daily Financial Times (FT) reported on the 22nd (local time) that its analysis of satellite images of Israel's Ben Gurion Airport showed at least 50 U.S. military aerial refueling tankers were parked there this month.

According to the report, the number of aerial refueling tankers at the airport has steadily increased since late February, just before the U.S. and Israel's attack on Iran. The number, which was around 36 in early March, increased to 47 at the time of the ceasefire in early April, and 52 were identified as of this week.

Ben Gurion Airport, located near Tel Aviv, serves as Israel's main civilian aviation gateway.

The FT stated, "The gray military aircraft belonging to the U.S. Air Force, particularly the aerial refueling tankers, have densely filled the airport apron, becoming clearly visible not only to civilian passengers but also from the nearby highway."

Aerial refueling tankers are considered key assets for long-range airstrike operations. They allow fighter jets to refuel in mid-air, significantly extending their operational radius and flight endurance.

 U.S. Air Force aerial refueling tankers parked at Israel's Ben Gurion Airport [Reuters=Yonhap News]

Even during the U.S.'s "Grand Fury" operation against Iran, refueling tankers of the KC-135 and KC-46 series deployed across the Middle East were mobilized to support long-range penetration by U.S. and Israeli fighter jets.

For this reason, it is being analyzed that the expanded deployment of refueling tankers at Ben Gurion Airport may also be in preparation for a resumption of attacks on Iran.

Amid ongoing peace negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that he has not entirely ruled out military options against Iran.

There have also been reports that the U.S. and Israel could resume airstrikes on Iran within days if the negotiations remain at an impasse.

The FT also pointed out that concerns are being raised within Israel about Ben Gurion Airport becoming effectively a "U.S. military base."

Israeli airlines are reportedly experiencing parking space shortages due to the increase in military aircraft, with some aircraft being parked at overseas airports.

International law experts have pointed out that the expanded military use of civilian airports could make those facilities targets for attack.

Marco Milanovic, Professor of International Law at the University of Reading, said, "Israel has an obligation under the Geneva Conventions to take all feasible measures to avoid placing military objectives within or near populated areas."