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21 Oct 2026, 23:42

Axios reported, citing Israeli and American officials, that dozens of Israeli Air Force fighter jets on Monday, October 19, 2026, conducted an operation that extended close to the Iranian border, following a route similar to a potential attack on Iran, but returned before entering the airspace of the country.

According to some American officials, this operation could have led to a miscalculation and military response from Iran, resulting in the resumption of war.

The report stated that dozens of fighter jets and refueling aircraft participated in this operation. The planes crossed the airspace of Syria and Iraq and changed their course upon nearing the Iranian border, returning to Israel.

Axios noted that this flight was over 800 miles away from Israel and took place a week before the country's elections. The operation also coincided with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Ovda Air Base, but sources indicated it was unrelated to Hegseth's visit.

According to Israeli and American officials, this flight was not an unusual action and was conducted as a deterrent against Iran. Israeli officials had previously informed the U.S. about this operation, describing it as a drill to demonstrate power and prevent potential Iranian attacks before the elections.

However, some American sources told Axios that they had the impression that Israel hoped Iran's air defense systems would identify the jets and that Iran would fire at them; an event that could provide a pretext for an Israeli attack on Iran.
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