Iran says it shot down another US F-35 as missile strikes and drone attacks intensify across West Asia, though Washington has not confirmed the claim.
April 3, 2026: Iran has claimed that it shot down a second US F-35 fighter jet over central parts of the country, escalating tensions in West Asia. According to Iranian media reports, the aircraft was targeted by a newly deployed air defence system operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Officials suggested that the impact was severe, with little chance of the pilot surviving. This comes days after Tehran made a similar claim about striking an advanced US fighter jet, marking what it described as a significant military development.
The claim coincides with a fresh wave of hostilities in the region. Reports indicate that Iran has launched missile strikes targeting Israel and parts of the Gulf, while explosions were heard in Tehran and Isfahan. At the same time, the United States is believed to be reinforcing its military presence in the region, raising concerns about further escalation. However, Washington has not confirmed the loss of any aircraft, calling such claims unverified.
In a related development, Iranian-linked sources also highlighted drone strikes on key energy infrastructure, including Kuwait’s Mina al-Ahmadi refinery, where fires broke out but no casualties were reported. The refinery has been targeted multiple times during the conflict. The situation continues to remain volatile, with both sides maintaining conflicting narratives and the risk of a broader regional crisis looming.