Eilat: The Israeli army executed two distinct drills on Thursday, one taking place on land in the Red Sea region near Eilat and another at sea in the Mediterranean. These exercises occur amidst escalating tensions between Iran and the United States, alongside an increased US military presence in the Middle East.
According to Anadolu Agency, the United States and Israel allege that Iran is pursuing the development of nuclear weapons, although Tehran maintains that its nuclear initiatives are intended for peaceful purposes, such as generating electricity.
In the southern part of Israel, the army performed an exercise in the Eilat area and the Arava Valley. This exercise simulated scenarios considered to be some of the most severe threats, as reported by the Maariv newspaper. An unnamed military source indicated that the army is preparing for 'extremely dangerous scenarios' it might encounter.
The reported simulated scenarios included missile attacks on Eilat and nearby regions, strikes on tourist spots, and infiltration attempts across the Jordanian border or from the Red Sea. The drill also accounted for the possibility of armed groups launching maritime attacks from Yemen toward the Gulf of Eilat or executing assaults by land in the vicinity.
The army has not disclosed the duration of the drill or additional details, but Maariv provided information on its objectives and scenarios based on an unnamed military source.
Simultaneously, in the Mediterranean, Israel's navy conducted a comprehensive defensive drill that spanned several days and concluded on Tuesday, as reported by Israel's public broadcaster KAN. This exercise simulated 'multi-domain threats' below the surface, on the sea, and in the air. It aimed at preparing to defend strategic assets within Israel's economic waters, including offshore gas platforms and ports.
The broadcaster detailed that the drill involved the coordinated efforts of submarines, missile ships, naval special forces, and air force aircraft. The army has not released an official statement regarding the exercise.