Suspected Iranian Attack Hits F-35, First Known Strike on US Aircraft

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A suspected Iranian attack caused a US F-35 stealth fighter to make an emergency landing at a Middle Eastern air base, reports indicate. The pilot is reported to be in stable condition, and officials confirm the aircraft landed safely. US Central Command spokesperson Captain Tim Hawkins stated, “The aircraft landed safely, and the pilot remains in stable condition,” though he did not verify specific media reports. The incident is currently under investigation.

Historically, the US has experienced the loss of multiple aircraft during heightened conflicts, including three F-15s accidentally shot down by Kuwaiti forces and a KC-135 refueling tanker that crashed in Iraq. However, there’s no confirmed record of any aircraft previously being struck by Iranian fire.

In response to Iran’s military activities and significant troop buildup in the region—featuring F-35s—the US and Israel have launched extensive air campaigns targeting Iran. Since hostilities ignited on February 28, thirteen US service members have lost their lives—six in a KC-135 crash and seven in early Iranian attacks. Additionally, about 200 US military personnel have been wounded across seven Middle Eastern countries; most have returned to duty.

Meanwhile, sources suggest that President Trump is contemplating deploying thousands more troops to the Middle East amid ongoing violence that has resulted in over 2,000 deaths worldwide. However, on Thursday, Trump stated, “I don’t plan to send ground troops anywhere.” Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu later confirmed that Israel conducted a solo operation bombing Iran’s South Pars gas field, despite Trump previously requesting Israel to hold off on such strikes.

Despite US and Israeli air assaults leaving Iran “decimated” after 20 days, effectively crippling its uranium enrichment and missile capabilities, Netanyahu emphasized that a revolutionary change within Iran would require ground intervention, not just airstrikes. Concurrently, Iran launched a fresh missile attack targeting Israel, according to military statements from both sides.