Israeli fighter jets have conducted large-scale exercises over the Mediterranean Sea, including aerial refueling exercises.

A publication by the London-based Saudi news portal Elaph described Thursday's air maneuvers conducted by an “an unusually large” contingent of F-15, F-16 and F-35 fighters and Boeing refueling planes in the air, seen as a warning beacon for Iran amid Israeli threats to take military action to stop Tehran's nuclear program, the Times of Israel wrote.

Citing an unnamed Arab source, Elaph reported that the "wide" maneuver took place over the Mediterranean Sea. Israeli defense officials, who rarely comment on foreign reports, could not be reached.

The use of the aging Israeli fleet for air refueling is the strongest indication that Israel is planning an attack on Iran's nuclear facilities or would like to demonstrate to Tehran and the rest of the world that it is preparing.

Israel rarely publicly flaunts the use of refueling planes in exercises, but they are sometimes used for exhibitions.