Another blow to US: Iran says it downed US’s 2nd fighter jet
text_fields
Tehran: Iran has claimed it shot down a US F-35 Lightning II in the Middle East, marking the second such assertion within two weeks and intensifying already volatile regional tensions. The claim, attributed to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and reported by state-linked agencies including Fars and Mehr, stated that the aircraft was destroyed in a violent crash, leaving little chance of survival for the pilot.
According to the reports, the jet was heavily damaged upon impact following an explosion, making it difficult to retrieve further details about the pilot or the wreckage. The incident, if confirmed, would represent a serious blow to US military prestige and its advanced air capabilities in the region.
However, the United States Central Command has not issued an official response to the latest claim. In previous similar situations, US authorities attributed such incidents to technical malfunctions that forced emergency landings, casting uncertainty over Iran’s assertions.
The development comes amid escalating geopolitical strain, with the United Nations preparing to vote on a resolution that could authorise military action to secure the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned that any provocative steps could further destabilise the region.
Meanwhile, turmoil within the US military leadership has added to the uncertainty, with Army Chief of Staff Randy George removed from his post by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth ahead of his expected retirement.
Meanwhile, US forces destroyed a vital highway bridge in Iran earlier, with President Donald Trump vowing "much more to follow" and pressing Tehran for a deal.
The precision strike targeted the B1 bridge connecting Tehran to Karaj, described by a US military official as a critical supply route for Iran's missile and drone units.
Iranian state media countered that the bridge was still under construction and unused by troops, reporting eight deaths—including civilians celebrating Nowruz—and dozens injured.