Iran on Sunday claimed that its air defense systems targeted and possibly downed an F-15 fighter jet near Hormuz Island, marking a new flashpoint in the intensifying regional conflict.
According to Iran’s Joint Air Defense Command, an “enemy” F-15 fighter jet was detected and tracked over the country’s southern coastal airspace near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Officials said the aircraft had fired a missile before Iranian ground-to-air defense systems responded and targeted it. The semi-official ISNA, Tasnim, and Mehr news agencies reported that the jet was intercepted and engaged over southern Iran.
Iran’s army public relations office confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the fate of the targeted fighter jet. Authorities have not yet provided details on whether the aircraft was destroyed, nor is there any information about the pilot or wreckage.
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There has also been no immediate confirmation or denial from US Central Command (CENTCOM) or the Israeli military.
Earlier claims of downing advanced jets
Iran has made similar claims in recent days.
On March 19, Tehran said it had shot down a US F-35 fighter jet, while on March 21 it claimed to have targeted an Israeli aircraft.
However, the US military later stated that the F-35 had made a “hard landing” at a regional base, while Israel said its F-16 remained undamaged after being targeted.
Also Read: Middle East war: At least 16 US military aircraft destroyed
The latest claim comes amid ongoing escalation following the US-Israeli joint offensive on Iran launched on February 28. The strikes reportedly killed more than 1,300 people, including Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with senior military officials and civilians.
The campaign has involved extensive aerial attacks on both military and civilian targets, causing widespread damage across Iran.
Iran retaliates with regional strikes
In response, Iran has carried out multiple retaliatory operations using drones and ballistic missiles. These attacks have targeted Israel as well as Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military bases.
The strikes have caused casualties, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted global markets and aviation routes.
Also Read: US begins planning Iran peace talks
The reported incident near Hormuz Island underscores the strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway is a critical global energy corridor, handling a large portion of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.
Any escalation in this region raises concerns about global energy security and shipping routes.
