Amid reports that Iran and the US could carry out a joint strike on Iran, Israeli F-15i and F-35i fighter jets were seen conducting drills alongside a US B-52 bomber on Tuesday.
The Israeli Defence Forces said the drills were aimed at practising "operational coordination" between the two militaries. But, many feel the drill could be aimed at readying the Israeli military for a potential joint strike with the US on Iran.
The drills saw dozens of fighter jets, strategic B-52 bombers and refuelling aircraft simulating coordinated strikes on shared targets, according to Israeli media reports.
The joint military exercise over the Mediterranean Sea is the first collaboration on this scale in two years. "The exercise aimed to strengthen and maintain the longstanding cooperation between the forces while expanding connectivity and building integrated capabilities for a range of scenarios," the IDF said.
🔴 IDF and US Air Force hold joint aerial drill as allies prepare to contend with regional threats pic.twitter.com/Rys5Yqlw0g
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However, speculations are rife that the drill is potentially aimed at readying the Israeli military for a potential joint strike with the US on Iran. The rumours are strengthened by reports that Israel is urging the US to take joint action against Iran's nuclear programme since the diplomatic efforts are faltering. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized collaboration with Washington to prevent Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
Also read: Iran fears attack its nuclear sites, even secret ones, every night: Report
Iran too is anticipating the attack with its fortifying defenses at its nuclear locations, including the secret one. Not only has Iran placed additional security on its nuclear sites, including air defence system launchers, but it is also on the verge of producing enough weapons-grade uranium to build several bombs.
Iran too had recently carried out drills, which came to the attention of Israelis who said the Army was conducting ongoing constant assessments to ensure readiness for a wide range of scenarios, including defensive and offensive.
