TEHRAN : Iran has continued targeting US warplanes in the Strait of Hormuz and its airspace, with Tehran claiming to have shot down two US F-35 stealth fighters and an A-10 aircraft today, according to the International News Agency.
However, the United States has confirmed a different toll, acknowledging the loss of an F-15E Strike Eagle and an A-10 aircraft. The US has not confirmed any F-35 losses.
The downed F-15E had a pilot and a crew member on board. One of them has been rescued, while a search operation remains underway for the second, US officials confirmed.
In a further escalation, Iran has claimed to have shot down two US military helicopters and a drone that were en route to carry out the rescue operation. A US official responded by stating that all personnel aboard the helicopters are safe, and that the rescue operation is continuing despite the attacks.
Meanwhile, the Iranian military separately claimed that it shot down a US A-10 aircraft in the southern part of the Persian Gulf. That incident occurred a few hours ago near the Strait of Hormuz.
It remains unclear whether this A-10 is the same aircraft that was targeted during the F-15 rescue mission or a separate, additional incident. US authorities have not yet released further details.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, has seen repeated military confrontations between US and Iranian forces. The latest claims and counterclaims are likely to further inflame region
al tensions.
