19.07.2026 07:10
The Israeli press claimed that the US is preparing to expand the scope of airstrikes against Iran and has deployed approximately 100 refueling aircraft and dozens of additional fighter jets to Israel accordingly. According to reports, while the coming week is critical, the US also advised its citizens not to travel to Israel and Lebanon due to regional tensions.
A senior Israeli military official, whose name was not disclosed, speaking to Israel's Channel 13 television, claimed that the US has increased its operational air capacity to expand the scope of attacks against Iran. The official alleged that approximately 100 refueling aircraft have begun to be deployed to Israel in this context.
The official, asserting that US President Donald Trump intends to further expand attacks on Iran, said that the upcoming week marks a critical period.
CLAIM: IRAN TRIES TO AVOID INVOLVING ISRAEL IN CONFLICT
The Israeli military official alleged that at this stage, the Tehran administration is trying not to directly involve Israel in the escalating tensions following the recent attacks. However, he claimed this could change if the US increases the intensity of its strikes.
ADDITIONAL FIGHTER JETS ALLEGEDLY SENT TO THE REGION
Israel's state television KAN also alleged that the US has begun sending dozens of additional fighter jets to the Middle East, along with refueling aircraft. The report stated that the US is expected to deploy new fighter jets to military bases in the region in the coming days.
KAN's report claimed that a squadron of F-16 fighter jets belonging to the US military arrived in Jordan within the last 24 hours, and some aircraft moved from Qatar to the Ovda Military Air Base in southern Israel. The report also stated that more fighter jets are expected to be deployed to air bases in southern Israel.
"REINFORCEMENT"
A US source speaking to KAN noted that the shipment was intended to reinforce F-35 and F-16 fleets. The source said the transfer process would be completed within a few days after logistical preparations were finished.
Meanwhile, claims that the US plans to send dozens of additional refueling aircraft to Israel as part of the possibility of expanding attacks on Iran had previously surfaced in the press.
US WARNS ITS CITIZENS
The US administration, citing the possibility of "high tension and unpredictable escalation" in the Middle East, called on its citizens not to travel to Israel and Lebanon and to reconsider their travel plans to the region.