Media: Israel considers relocating US military bases to Negev

Israeli leaders are expected to discuss the possibility of relocating American military bases from several Middle Eastern countries to the Negev region in southern Israel, amid growing concerns over the vulnerability of US facilities in the Gulf to Iranian attacks, Israel Hayom reports.

The outlet said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defence Minister Israel Katz and senior security officials are due to review the proposal during discussions on the future of US-Israeli defence cooperation and the next American aid package.

Israeli political officials have reportedly expressed support for the idea and have already raised the issue with senior US counterparts. However, no final decisions have been made, and discussions between the two sides remain ongoing.

The proposal comes as Washington reassesses the deployment of its military assets across the Middle East, including facilities in Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, all of which are considered vulnerable to potential Iranian strikes.

The discussions also follow reports in recent months suggesting that Iranian attacks caused greater damage to US military facilities in the region than was initially disclosed. According to those reports, the incidents prompted American officials to re-evaluate the positioning of US forces and their exposure to threats from Iran.

From Washington's perspective, Israel offers several strategic advantages, including proximity to key operational theatres, extensive intelligence and security cooperation, advanced technological infrastructure and sophisticated multilayered air defence capabilities. Relocating bases to the Negev could also deepen security ties between the two allies while creating economic and employment opportunities.

Israeli officials, however, are also weighing the potential risks. A significant and permanent American military presence could make Israel a more prominent target for Iran and other regional actors, particularly during periods of confrontation involving the United States.

Another concern under consideration is whether such a move could affect Israel's operational freedom. While hosting US forces could reinforce Washington's security commitment to Israel, it could also increase American influence over Israeli military decisions if US personnel or facilities were perceived to be at risk.

The issue is expected to be discussed as part of broader negotiations on future security cooperation between Israel and the United States. For now, officials stress that the proposal remains under review and that no decision has been reached.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov