Iran has claimed responsibility for shooting down two Israeli F-35 fighter jets during a retaliatory strike this week, potentially marking the first reported downing of the U.S.-made stealth aircraft in combat. The claim has been forcefully denied by Israeli officials, who accuse Tehran of spreading “fake news” amid ongoing military confrontations.
According to Iranian state media, including IRIB and the semi-official Tasnim 카지노 사이트 Agency, Iranian air-defence units engaged and destroyed two F-35s flying over Iranian airspace during a wave of missile exchanges on Thursday. One report also alleged that a pilot was captured alive, though no visual evidence has been provided to substantiate the claim.
"This is a historic moment for our defence capability," an Iranian military spokesperson told IRNA. "We have neutralised the most advanced aircraft in the world."
The reports followed a significant Israeli air campaign targeting Iranian military and nuclear-related infrastructure, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion.” Israel stated that over 200 strategic sites were hit in response to recent escalations, including Iranian proxy activity across the region.
Israel Denies, Says Claims Are Fabricated
In a statement released Friday, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) categorically denied the downing of any aircraft.
"This is complete fake news," said Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, the IDF’s international spokesperson. “There is no truth to the Iranian claims. No F-35s have been hit or lost.”
Israeli defence sources further stated that all aircraft returned safely from their missions and that air defences intercepted a majority of Iranian missiles targeting Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv. Local authorities reported structural damage in some areas, but no major casualties were confirmed.
No Independent Verification
As of Saturday morning, no independent evidence has emerged to support Iran’s assertions. Satellite imagery reviewed by open-source analysts has not confirmed any crash sites, and international observers, including Western intelligence officials, have expressed scepticism.
“While Iran’s defences have improved, taking out an F-35 would require a highly sophisticated and coordinated strike,” said Michael Horowitz, a defence analyst at the Le Beck International consultancy. “Until physical evidence surfaces, this remains an unverified claim.”
Global Reaction
The latest confrontation marks one of the most intense direct exchanges between Iran and Israel in years. The United States, which has supported Israel’s defence systems, reportedly assisted in intercepting Iranian missiles during the escalation, according to a report by The Times (UK).
World leaders have called for de-escalation. The European Union issued a statement urging “both parties to exercise maximum restraint,” while the United Nations Security Council has scheduled an emergency session for Sunday.
