IDF chief visits air base as Mideast tensions rise amid Iran threats

“We are prepared for different scenarios and constantly improving our capabilities in order to achieve victory in the overall campaign against our enemies,” Zamir said.

By World Israel News Staff

As tensions with Iran intensify amid escalating rhetoric and a growing U.S. military buildup in the region, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir visited Nevatim Air base on Wednesday to review the readiness of the base and its aircrews for a potential rapid escalation.

During the visit, Zamir examined operational preparedness and the Air Force’s ability to absorb Israel’s advanced F-35i “Adir” fighter jets, as the fleet continues to expand.

“The Air Force is the strategic arm of the IDF,” Zamir said at the base. “You are at the forefront of the offensive and defensive effort in near and distant arenas over the past two years of fighting.” He said the Air Force has gained unique combat experience in recent operations, including Operation Am Kalavi, and stressed that the IDF will apply those lessons “to ensure the security of the State of Israel at all times.”

Zamir highlighted the scope of Israeli air activity across the region, saying Air Force pilots, backed by the full range of IAF units and in cooperation with Military Intelligence, are striking “throughout the Middle East” to remove threats and protect Israeli civilians.

“We are prepared for different scenarios and constantly improving our capabilities in order to achieve victory in the overall campaign against our enemies,” he said. “This is our responsibility and our mission.”

The chief of staff also noted that three additional F-35i aircraft joined the Israeli Air Force this week, calling their arrival “a significant milestone” in strengthening the IDF’s operational capabilities. “We will continue in the coming years to strengthen the Air Force as a strategic arm prepared to confront and defeat any challenge,” he said.

The visit comes as the United States continues reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East amid repeated Iranian threats to retaliate against Israel and U.S. bases in the region if Washington launches strikes.

The buildup includes the expected arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, the deployment of at least 12 U.S. F-15 fighter jets and four KC-135 refueling aircraft to Jordan, and additional Patriot and THAAD missile defense systems.

Open-source flight monitoring has also recorded a surge in U.S. Air Force cargo activity, with at least eight C-17 aircraft transiting through Ramstein Air Base over the past 24 hours, alongside reports that 9 to 10 aerial refueling tankers are currently en route from the continental United States toward the region.

Eyal ZamirIran threatNevatim Air Force base