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Dozens of Israeli fighter jets and refuelling aircraft conducted an operational sortie reaching approximately 1,300 kilometres from Israel, with the flight path matching a potential Iran strike route, according to Axios reporting. The exercise took place on the same day Prime Minister Netanyahu met with US officials, appearing designed to demonstrate Israeli strike capabilities and deter Iranian action.

However, American officials expressed concern that Israel may have hoped for an Iranian response to justify further military operations, according to NBC reporting. The manoeuvre reflects ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran amid broader Middle East instability.

US forces have simultaneously reduced their presence at bases across the Middle East, with the State Department instructing staff reductions at several diplomatic missions in the region, suggesting coordinated strategic repositioning by both allies.

Sources: Times of Israel, Jerusalem Post, Walla, Ynet