The timing underscores an unusual convergence: maximum military reinforcement paired with unexpected diplomatic optimism about reaching a ceasefire agreement. The U.S. military prefers stationing refueling aircraft at Ben Gurion Airport as it is less exposed to Iranian attacks than other bases in the region. Israeli officials will use the Cooper meetings to test whether any emerging ceasefire framework includes protections for Israeli operational autonomy, particularly regarding Iranian proxy forces in Lebanon, Gaza, and Iraq. Israeli concerns have centered on whether framework agreements contain adequate safeguards and whether Iran can preserve nuclear infrastructure while constraining Israeli military options. globalsecurityThe stakes for Netanyahu's government are high: a premature ceasefire that leaves Iranian capabilities intact would undermine the strategic purpose of the February-March military campaign.