Iran claims strike on US F-18; US military rejects allegation

Iran has claimed that one of the United States’ F-18 fighter jets was struck by its integrated air defence system, according to statements from the Iranian Consulate in India. This marks a new escalation in the ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington.



The video, also circulated by the Iranian state-affiliated channel Press TV, seems to show a fighter jet in flight, followed by a sudden flash near the aircraft, suggesting it might have been hit mid-air.


Shortly afterwards, the jet appears to lose stability, leaving a visible trail that could indicate damage or loss of control. Though brief, the footage gives the impression of an aerial incident. No independent verification of the video has been reported.

However, the American forces has denied the claim and said that no fighter jet was shot down by Iran.



"FALSE: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced a US F/A-18 fighter was struck over Chabahar using new advanced air defence systems. TRUE: No US fighter aircraft have been shot down by Iran," US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a post on X.