According to Israel's Channel 12, citing US sources, dozens of Israeli Air Force fighter jets and refueling aircraft flew over Syria and Iraq, approaching the Iranian border before returning to Israel. The flight path simulated an attack on Iran. Isr

2026-10-22

According to Israel's Channel 12, citing US sources, dozens of Israeli Air Force fighter jets and refueling aircraft flew over Syria and Iraq, approaching the Iranian border before returning to Israel. The flight path simulated an attack on Iran. Israel informed the US of the operation beforehand, describing it as an exercise aimed at deterring Iran. However, US sources stated that they believe Israel may be hoping to provoke a reaction from Iran, providing a pretext for an attack. The report noted that some Israeli and US officials believe the operation is not unusual, but it could still lead to a miscalculation by Iran, causing an escalation or even a renewed war. On the day the report was published, US Defense Secretary Hergsays was visiting Israel and met with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz at Ofda Air Base.