War indicators intensify: Arrival of U.S. refueling aircraft and departure of personnel from Israel
American military and diplomatic movements are adding further ambiguity and complexity to the regional landscape amid ongoing tensions with Iran.
Israeli Channel 12 News revealed the arrival of 20 U.S. refueling aircraft at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel as part of the military buildup in the region. The United States has not officially announced the arrival of these aircraft in Israel.
Earlier, 12 U.S. F-22 fighter jets also arrived in Israel. Israel does not possess this type of aircraft in its own fleet. American missile defense batteries are likewise deployed in Israel.
The Israeli channel further reported the arrival of the massive U.S. aircraft carrier “Gerald Ford” off Israel’s coast.
In the same context, the United States authorized the departure of non-essential government personnel and their family members from Israel. The U.S. Embassy in Israel stated: “On February 27, 2026, the U.S. Department of State authorized the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members from the U.S. Embassy in Israel due to security risks.”
It added in a statement: “In response to security incidents, and without prior notice, the U.S. Embassy may impose additional restrictions or prohibit U.S. government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel, the Old City of Jerusalem, and the West Bank. Travelers are advised to consider departing Israel while commercial flights remain available.”
On Thursday, the third round of talks between the United States and Iran concluded in Geneva under the auspices of the Sultanate of Oman, which stated that “significant progress” had been achieved.
These negotiations are taking place as the United States deploys a fleet of aircraft and warships to the Middle East to pressure Tehran into reaching an agreement.
U.S. President Donald Trump seeks to secure a deal to curb Iran’s nuclear program, viewing it as a timely opportunity amid rising domestic opposition following the nationwide protests that swept the country last month.
Conversely, Iran insists on continuing uranium enrichment despite the setback to its nuclear program after Trump ordered an attack last June on three of its nuclear facilities.
