Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said Tuesday that US Air Force fighter jets and bombers flew from Israeli bases to strike Iran in recent weeks, revealing Washington’s use of Israel as a launchpad for its widening regional campaign. Katz made the statement to the right-wing Israeli broadcaster Channel 14, adding that “the Iranians know” the aircraft departed from Israel. He also threatened Iran, saying Israel is prepared to strike if attacked, as the country intercepted at least three drones near the Jordanian border on Monday and Tuesday. The remarks come amid a buildup of US military assets in Israel, according to reports. Katz described the situation as a sign that “the arrogant empire that threatened to destroy Israel has collapsed,” a reference to Iran. The disclosure underscores the deepening military cooperation between the US and Israel in their operations against Iranian targets. No further details on the US attacks or the specific targets were provided. The Israeli military has not commented on Katz’s statements. The US has not officially confirmed the use of Israeli bases for operations against Iran.