Israeli Jets Fly Near Iran’s Border in Surprise Show of Force; Was Tehran Caught Off Guard?

TEL AVIV, Oct 22 : Dozens of Israeli fighter jets reportedly flew as far as Iran’s border on Monday in a large-scale military operation intended to project power and deter Tehran, Axios reported Wednesday, citing Israeli and US officials.

According to the report, the operation involved fighter jets and aerial refueling aircraft that travelled more than 800 miles from Israel along a route consistent with a potential strike on Iran. The aircraft reportedly passed through Syrian and Iraqi airspace before turning back as they approached the Iranian border.

Israel notified the United States in advance and described the mission as a training exercise aimed at deterring Iran from attacking Israel ahead of the Israeli elections scheduled for Oct 27, Axios reported.

US officials said Israel was aware that Iranian air defence systems would detect the aircraft during the operation.

Some US sources told Axios they had the impression that Israel might have hoped Iran would fire at the approaching aircraft, potentially providing a justification for Israeli strikes. However, the report did not establish that this was Israel’s actual objective.

Other Israeli and US officials described the flight as a relatively routine operation intended to demonstrate military capability and deter potential Iranian aggression.

The reported operation comes amid heightened regional tensions and concerns over the possibility of a direct military confrontation between Israel and Iran.