It isn't a question of if, simply because no other option remains. A "hit and run" scenario involving a small number of aircraft, like those executed by the Israeli Air Force in Iraq in 1981 or Syria in 2007, are irrelevant. Against multiple sites, some of which are underground, many more aircraft would be needed, possibly in multiple waves of attacks.
The drill involved Israeli F-35i and F-15i fighters flying alongside an American B-52 strategic bomber, presumably aimed at sending a message to Iran that Israel has regional backing against Tehran and its proxies.
According to Bloomberg, the request came directly from Trump to Russian President Vladimir Putin during a February phone call, based on sources familiar with the situation.
According to a report by Reuters, senior Russian officials made several visits over the past year. The group included 7 weapons experts with military backgrounds, 2 of whom specialize in air defense missile systems.
Masoud Pezeshkian stated that while he initially supported dialogue with the US due to his country's economic crisis, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei opposes any such talks. The president also highlighted the severe impact of sanctions on Iran.
"They [Iranian authorities] are just waiting for the attack and are anticipating it every night and everything has been on high alert – even in sites that no one knows about," one source revealed to The Telegraph. "
Public services shut down, the workweek shortened, and schools closed in most of the country – Iran's energy crisis is growing. The ayatollah regime is attempting to deflect responsibility for its failures. Meanwhile, Iran’s chief of staff suggests a capitalist solution.
US intelligence officials warn that Israel may take advantage of Iran's weakness. Assessment: An attack on Fordow and Natanz in the first half of 2025.
"They don't want to die. Nobody wants to die," President Donald Trump said about Iran Friday, adding that nuclear agreement would prevent Israeli action.
The footage displayed various drone models either airborne or positioned on the vessel's deck, which bears standard naval gray coloring. The carrier features a 590-foot flight deck suitable for small aircraft operations, having been converted from a commercial vessel with the addition of a flight deck.