As tensions over its nuclear program escalate, Iran has showcased its military preparations with large-scale war games, launching missile strikes and displaying new defensive hardware, including a Russian Yak-130 combat jet, according to state news agencies.
The show of strength comes as Tehran places its armed forces on high alert, bracing for a potential attack by Israel and the U.S.
Newsweek has reached out to the Pentagon for comment via email.
Why It Matters
The Washington Post has said U.S. intelligence assesses the likelihood of an Israeli attack on Iran’s nuclear program in the coming weeks or months as high. While U.S. President Donald Trump has emphasized diplomacy in addressing Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Washington’s continued military presence suggests a readiness for further escalation.
Trita Parsi, Executive Vice President of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft told Newsweek, “The situation has changed fundamentally from a few years ago when Israel was unwilling to strike Iran on its own and mostly used the threat of strikes to stiffen Washington’s position or to drag the U.S. into a war.”
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Iranian Army/AP Photo
What to Know
Iranian forces deployed the Yak-130 aircraft for the first time during its large-scale military drills. The jet, originally manufactured in Russia, showed maneuverability and combat capabilities. Drill spokesperson Alireza Sheikh called its performance “remarkable.”
Dubbed the “Zolfaqar 1403,” the military exercises showcase Iran’s ground forces, air defense, and naval capabilities.
U.S. Bombers Show Force
Meanwhile, U.S. bombers recently carried out two flyovers in the Middle East within 48 hours. The B-52s, deployed from Royal Air Force Base Fairford in the United Kingdom, flew over six U.S.-aligned countries in the region, accompanied by a fighter escort, according to a statement from U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).
Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Bagheri warned that, “our armed forces are at the peak of their readiness. In the case of any mistake by the enemy, the security of the Zionist regime and those who participated in its equipment and operational planning will be put in danger.”
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AP Photo
Weakened Defenses
Israel’s most recent airstrike on Iran came last October after Iran launched 200 ballistic missiles, breaching Israeli air defenses but causing little damage. Satellite imagery suggests Iran’s military infrastructure suffered significant degradation.
“With Iran’s weakened deterrence, and perhaps most importantly, the Biden administration’s removal of virtually any restraints on Israel – which Trump is likely to leave unchanged – Israel is today far more willing to strike Iran on its own with US support but without direct US involvement,” Parsi stated.
Israel Emboldened
“Israel argues that the experience of the past months has proven that Israel can amplify American power in the region as long as the U.S. supports it logistically and does not put any constraints on how Israel conducts the war.” added Parsi
Iran says its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes, with key facilities in Natanz and Fordow heavily fortified. Trump has backed a “verifiable nuclear peace agreement” while emphasizing that “all options are on the table.”
Atomic Energy Organization of Iran/AP Photo
What People Are Saying
Trita Parsi, Executive Vice President of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft told Newsweek: “While Trump seems disinclined to want war with Iran, the Israeli argument is that as long as Trump supports Israel, Tel Aviv can start and finish the war on its own without leaving a mess for Washington to clean up. This is fanciful thinking by and large, but one that the Trump administration is susceptible to.”
Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Bagheri: “Our armed forces are at the peak of their readiness.”
What Happens Next
Iran’s military exercises are set to continue until mid-March, but with new U.S. sanctions targeting its oil industry and the looming possibility of an Israeli attack, Tehran remains on high alert, reinforcing its defenses and warning of a decisive response to any aggression.
