Israeli warships 'send a message' to Iran, preparing for attack

Israeli warships move into the Red Sea in preparations for an attack against Iranian nuclear facilities. The action is publicized by Israel as a "message to Iran."

Tensions between Israel and Iran were elevated on Thursday when two Israeli warships moved through the Suez Canal and into the Red Sea to rehearse a possible attack on Iran. "Media reports in Israel said the two Saar-class missile ships had been sent as a 'message' to the Tehran government, which has repeatedly issued threats against Israel and is developing nuclear technology believed by the West to be intended for atomic weapons programme," The Telegraph reported. Iran has repeatedly denied any intention of using its nuclear facilities to produce weapons. Israel and Western nations have been increasingly suspicious of the Islamic republic's nuclear motives. This suspicion has led Israel to claim a right to strike Iranian nuclear facilities with military force. To this end, Israel's military leadership have been briefing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the overall readiness of the country's military capabilities. Israel has recently received approval from Saudi Arabia to use Saudi airspace for strikes against Iran. Beyond the nuclear threat, Israel also accuses Iran of supporting Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza.