BREAKING: A US Air Force KC-135 refuelling aircraft has crashed in western Iraq during a mission linked to the escalating conflict with Iran. Military officials reported that rescue operations are currently underway as authorities work to ascertain the full details of this incident.
According to US Central Command (Centcom), the crash occurred in friendly airspace as part of Operation Epic Fury. While Centcom confirmed the loss of the aircraft, they stated that it was not due to hostile or friendly fire. “Two aircraft were involved in the incident; one went down, while the second landed safely,” the statement read. The second aircraft was also a KC-135, sources revealed.
In a surprising twist, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an Iranian-backed group, claimed responsibility for the crash, asserting they shot down the aircraft “in defense of our country’s sovereignty and airspace.” Centcom has yet to confirm if there were any casualties among the crew, which typically consists of at least three members.
Urgent updates: Officials are calling for patience as they gather additional information for the families of service members involved. The KC-135, vital for aerial refuelling, operates under challenging conditions that demand precise coordination. Historically, mid-air refuelling missions have been perilous, with past incidents resulting in fatalities.
This incident coincides with heightened tensions in the region, as the US and Israel have launched over 6,000 strikes against Iranian targets since hostilities began on February 28, 2023. The conflict has claimed the lives of more than 2,000 individuals, including nearly 700 by Israeli forces in Lebanon.
Moreover, on the same day as the KC-135 crash, a fire erupted on the USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier, injuring two sailors, although their injuries were described as “non-life-threatening.” The Pentagon has reported at least seven US service members killed and around 140 wounded since the onset of the conflict.
As investigators continue to probe the circumstances surrounding the KC-135 crash, there remain critical unanswered questions regarding its cause. Some speculate a midair collision may have occurred, but clarity is still lacking. Notably, this incident marks the fourth US manned aircraft lost since Operation Epic Fury commenced, with none attributed to Iranian fire.
The situation remains fluid, and officials emphasize the need for ongoing rescue and investigative efforts. Continued developments will be monitored closely as the conflict unfolds.
