by Michael R. Gordon and Eric Schmitt, The New York Times
Washington - Israel carried out a major military exercise earlier this month that American officials say appeared to be
a rehearsal for a potential bombing attack on Iran's nuclear facilities.
Several American officials said the Israeli exercise appeared to be an effort to develop the military's capacity to
carry out long-range strikes and to demonstrate the seriousness with which Israel views Iran's nuclear program.
More than 100 Israeli F-16 and F-15 fighters participated in the maneuvers, which were carried out over the eastern
Mediterranean and over Greece during the first week of June, American officials said.
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