Why can't their planes reach Northren Iran? They have both KC-130's IAF Boeing 707s that they use for refueling all the time. They have several good fighter/bombers that have range upward of 6K Kl.
Israeli warplanes cannot engage targets deep in Iran and make it back to Israel without refueling. Where to refuel? Iraq or Saudi Arabia? I don't think so. An American aircraft carrier? That would make the US complicit in the attack. Another aspect is that airborne Israeli refueling craft would have to circle the rendezvous point for an indeterminate period. This would surely be detected by Arab ground radar or Saudi AWACS aircraft. Ergo... the element of surprise is thus compromised.
IMHO The only way for Israel to mask a preemptive attack would be to position submarines in the Persian Gulf and strike hard with cruise missiles. At least 15 of the 'critical' Iranian nuclear facilities would have to be destroyed to ensure a successful mission.
Interesting points. I'm obviously working from an opinion based on limited information. One of my dads friends son's was a US Air force pilot and he trained, or helped train, some Israeli pilots. He was sold on how great the IAF was and what state of the art equipment they had. I was a little surprised to find, in doing some quick research, that they didn't have better air tankers. Perhaps the logistical issues you assert are the very reasons they haven't invested in them.
If Israel can do it with submarines do they still need the US's help?
Personally I thinks it's in the US's interest to protect Israel. Partly due to the belief that it's in our best interest and partly because I think it's simply the right thing to do.
Some clarification would be appreciated!