Iran Claims Downing US F-35 Fighter Jet | Reuters

Iran claimed Friday that its military shot down a second U.S. F-35 fighter jet over central Iran, according to Reuters, citing the Mehr news agency. The claim comes as the conflict between Israel and Iran enters its sixth week, with Iran stating the pilot’s survival is unlikely. As of Friday afternoon, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has not confirmed the incident.

This alleged downing follows a previous incident on March 2, where CENTCOM confirmed the loss of three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles over Kuwait during Operation Epic Fury. CENTCOM attributed the loss to a “friendly fire” incident, stating the jets were “mistakenly” shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses during active combat involving Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones.

CENTCOM Commander Brad Cooper stated on March 31 that the military is making “undeniable progress” in Operation Epic Fury. “Now in our 5th week of the campaign, It’s my operational assessment that we are making undeniable progress. We don’t see their navy sailing. We don’t see their aircraft flying, and their air and missile defense systems have largely been destroyed,” Cooper said.

Simultaneously, Iran launched missiles towards Israel on Friday morning, which Israel’s military stated it was intercepting. Israel’s military reported identifying the missiles and activating its defensive systems. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced via IRIB that it had targeted areas of Tel Aviv and the port city of Eilat with long-range missiles.

The latest developments occur amidst escalating tensions in the region. U.S. President Donald Trump issued a threat late Thursday, stating, “The New Regime leadership knows what has to be done, and has to be done, FAST!” in a post on Truth Social. Trump threatened to destroy Iranian bridges and power plants, following the destruction of a recently constructed bridge near Tehran in an airstrike that reportedly killed eight people, according to Iranian state media.

Trump further stated, “hasn’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran. Bridges next, then Electric Power Plants!” Images circulating on Telegram reportedly show debris from the downed F-35, including a section with markings indicating “U.S. Air Forces in Europe.”

According to a report by CNBC, hours after Trump’s statement, Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency claimed the F-35 was shot down over central Iran. Neither U.S. Central Command nor Iranian authorities have responded to requests for comment regarding this claim as of publication.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing conflict and heightened rhetoric from both sides. The potential for further escalation remains a significant concern.