Report: Israeli Air Force Simulated ‘Massive Attack’ on Iran as US Officer Watched

Israel has been threatening to attack Iran amid JCPOA negotiations

Israel’s Kan broadcaster reported Tuesday that the Israeli Air Force simulated a “massive attack’ on Iran’s nuclear program during drills that were held two weeks ago. The report said that a US Air Force officer was present for the exercises.

According to The Times of Israel, the Kan report presented the unusual participation as evidence of a shift in Washington’s approach to Iran’s nuclear program, although US officials signaled Monday that a revival of the nuclear deal is possible.

The drills involved dozens of jets and multiple scenarios, including long-range strikes and mid-air refueling, which would be necessary for Israel to strike targets inside Iran. A separate report said the drills took place over the Mediterannean.

Although the rhetoric has toned down in recent weeks, Israeli officials have stepped up their threats against Iran since the US restarted nuclear deal talks with Tehran in Vienna at the end of November.

The Israeli military was given a budget boost to prepare for attacking Iran and has presented Israeli leadership with several options for striking targets inside the country.

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said Tuesday that he hopes the Vienna talks end without an agreement. He also said that the Israeli “campaign to weaken Iran” has begun.

Author: Dave DeCamp

Dave DeCamp is the news editor of Antiwar.com, follow him on Twitter @decampdave.