Israel has confirmed that American warplanes used its bases during their attacks on Iran, as tensions between the US and Iran continue to escalate. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz made the revelation on Tuesday, reiterating that his country is prepared to retaliate if targeted. The announcement comes amid a pause in fighting between the US and Iran since Friday, following 13 nights of US strikes on the Islamic republic after an April ceasefire collapsed.
US-Israeli Military Coordination
Katz told Israel's right-wing Channel 14 that "the fact is that, at the moment -- and this could change within an hour -- the Iranians are firing at everything in the region except one country: the State of Israel." He added, "They know that American aircraft are taking off from here to carry out strikes." This confirmation highlights the extent of US-Israeli military coordination in the ongoing conflict.
Israel's Retaliation Stance
"This does not mean we know what will happen tomorrow; it means we know what our response will be," Katz said. "I announced it, the Prime Minister announced it, and we made it absolutely clear: if Israel comes under fire, we will strike back with full force." Israel has not taken part in the latest round of hostilities, which began in late February with a wave of US-Israeli strikes on Iran.
US President Donald Trump expressed optimism on Monday about the prospects for a negotiated peace deal with Iran, as the two sides held their fire for a third consecutive day. The current pause in hostilities provides a window for potential diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.
The revelation of US bombers using Israeli bases underscores the complex dynamics at play in the Middle East, where regional alliances and military strategies are constantly shifting. As the situation remains fluid, the international community watches closely for any signs of further escalation or diplomatic breakthroughs.
