While Israeli officials are signaling �business as usual� one cannot help but wonder why davka this year Israel and the United States are taking part in a military exercise labeled �unprecedented� in scope. Yes, the event was planned for months, but this year, �Operation Austere Challenge 12� is the largest joint military exercise ever held between the two countries, commencing on Sunday.

The joint exercise involved 3,500 soldiers from both countries, all involved in the month-long exercise. The comprehensive exercise covers every possible threat against Israel, including ballistic missiles, drones and other weaponry, carrying a cost of $60 million, undertaken by both sides equally.

Simultaneously, Israel is holding its first-ever simulated earthquake preparedness exercise.

(YWN � Israel Desk, Jerusalem)