The New Nation - Internet Edition

AFP, Washington

Israeli jet pilots trained for a possible strike on Iranian nuclear sites, US media reported Friday, sparking a strong warning from Tehran and caution from world leaders.

A major military exercise carried out by Israel earlier this month seemed to be a test-run for any potential strike against Iran's nuclear facilities, the New York Times reported, citing US officials.

In Athens, an official with the Greek air force's central command confirmed to AFP the substance of the report, stating that it had taken part in "joint training exercises" with Israel off the Mediterranean island of Crete.

The maneuvers, code-named "Glorious Spartan 08," took place on May 28 and June 12, and consisted of aerial maneuvers and knowledge exchange, said the Greek source, who requested anonymity.

The goal was for more than 100 Israeli F-16 and F-15 fighter jets to prepare for long-range strikes and demonstrate Israel's serious concern over Iran's nuclear ambitions, the Times reported.

On June 6 Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Shaul Mofaz warned that Iran would face attack if it pursues what he said was its nuclear weapons program.

In Tehran, senior cleric Ayatollah Ahmad Khatami warned Israel of a "strong blow" if it attacks Iran.

"If enemies especially Israelis and their supporters in the United States would want to use a language of force, they should rest assured that they will receive a strong blow in the mouth," Khatami said in his Friday prayers sermon.

At the United Nations, US ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad said that Washington favored diplomacy to resolve the Iranian nuclear crisis-at least for the moment.

"We're in the phase of diplomacy, we want a diplomatic settlement of this issue," Khalilzad told reporters.

"I saw the article in (the) paper today," Khalilzad told reporters. "You know our view with regard to Iran, which is that it would be unacceptable for Iran to acquire nuclear weapons."