Arrival of F-22 Raptor Fighters in Israel Strengthens Deterrence Messages Ahead of Geneva Talks

Israeli reports revealed the landing of 12 American F-22 fighter jets in Israel, in a move described as part of a military repositioning aimed at enhancing operational coordination between Washington and Tel Aviv, amid rising tensions with Iran.
According to what Yedioth Ahronoth reported, citing security sources, the deployment of the stealth fighters is part of strengthening deterrence and political pressure, ahead of an upcoming round of talks in Geneva, while keeping the option for military action open if a decision is made by President Donald Trump.

Military Message with Negotiation Timing

Sources believe that the announcement of the aircraft's arrival days before the talks is not a trivial detail, but carries clear political implications, indicating that American-Israeli coordination has reached an advanced level regarding any potential scenario against Tehran.
The positioning of this advanced model in Israel is an unusual step, as F-22 fighters rarely land outside American bases, especially since their export is legally prohibited, unlike F-35 Lightning II fighters which have been sold to several allies.

Air Superiority Capabilities and High Cost

The F-22 entered service in the early 1990s as an air superiority aircraft, before expanding its missions to include ground attack, electronic warfare, and reconnaissance. The cost of each unit exceeds $200 million, making its deployment an indicator of serious preparations.
The fighter recorded its first combat operations in 2014 against ISIS, while it re-emerged in 2023 after shooting down a Chinese balloon over the Atlantic Ocean.

Extensive Air and Naval Mobilization

The deployment of the aircraft coincides with a significant American military presence in the region, which includes hundreds of fighter jets and support aircraft, along with two carrier strike groups, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, indicating multi-level operational readiness.

Between deterrence messages and negotiation requirements, this military mobilization places the region at a critical stage, where political calculations intersect with potential escalation scenarios.