JERUSALEM — Citing senior security sources, Channel 12 revealed that Israel views the current conflict as a turning point that has proven its value as a “central and indispensable” ally. The plan involves offering the U.S. land and infrastructure to build new large-scale bases, as well as the relocation of existing assets from countries like Bahrain and Qatar.
Key Motivations Behind the Proposal
According to the N12 report, the Israeli security cabinet sees three primary advantages to this shift:
- The “Reliability” Argument: Israeli officials point to the recent evacuation of non-essential personnel from the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain (following Iranian strikes) as evidence that Gulf-based assets are increasingly vulnerable.
- Operational Synergy: With U.S. F-22 Raptors already deployed to Ovda Airbase and the recent “deception operation” involving U.S. tankers at Ben Gurion, the Israeli military believes deeper integration would streamline future joint operations.
- Economic Stability: Israel is positioning itself as a location where U.S. personnel can operate without the constant threat of host-nation diplomatic shifts or Iranian “toll booth” harassment.
Potential Locations and Footprint
While the full invitation has yet to be delivered to the White House, early reports suggest several specific areas of interest:
- The Negev Desert: Expansion of existing facilities like Nevatim or Ovda to accommodate permanent U.S. command centers.
- The Gaza Border: Building on the November 2025 proposal for a $500 million base near the Gaza Strip to oversee post-war stabilization and international security coordination.
- Naval Access: Offering expanded docking and maintenance rights at Haifa or Ashdod for U.S. carrier strike groups, potentially reducing reliance on the Jebel Ali port in Dubai.
“Reshaping the Map”
An Israeli security source quoted in the report stated:
“We have proved our value as a central ally that provides not only stability but significant intelligence and operational capabilities. American bases in Israel would create a permanent strategic advantage that deters regional aggression before it starts.”
The View from Washington
The Biden-turned-Trump administration has not yet officially commented on the N12 report. However, the proposal comes at a time when:
- President Trump has expressed interest in a “Board of Peace” base in southern Gaza for international troops.
- The Pentagon is reportedly reviewing the sustainability of its long-term presence in countries that have called for “restraint” or limited U.S. strike capabilities during the current war.
| Proposed Shift | Current Location | Potential Israeli Location |
| Command & Control | Manama, Bahrain (5th Fleet) | Haifa / Ashdod |
| Air Superiority Hub | Al-Udeid, Qatar | Negev (Ovda/Nevatim) |
| Stabilization Force | Regional Mobile Units | Gaza Border “Board of Peace” Base |
