Iran announced on Monday that its air defense forces successfully shot down another Israeli F-35 stealth fighter jet near Tabriz, marking the fourth such aircraft claimed to be intercepted since the outbreak of hostilities with Israel. According to Iranian state media, the fighter jet was attempting an air raid on Iranian military infrastructure when it was targeted and downed.
Iranian officials said the interception demonstrated the continued readiness and capability of the country’s air defense systems. If independently verified, this would mark a significant moment in military aviation history, potentially representing the first combat downing of the US-made F-35 stealth fighter jet.
The announcement follows earlier claims by Iran that multiple Israeli jets had been downed over the past weeks, with some reports indicating that pilots were killed or captured. On June 14, Iran also claimed to have brought down another F-35, reportedly capturing a second pilot after the ejection.
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In a statement, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned that air defenses remain on high alert and further Israeli aircraft would be targeted if they violated Iranian airspace.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him a “war criminal” and accusing him of manipulating international conflicts. Araghchi also called on the United States to intervene diplomatically, suggesting that a single phone call from Washington could de-escalate the situation and open a path for renewed talks.
Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call condemning Israel’s military actions. A statement from the Kremlin emphasized concern over the growing casualties and long-term consequences of the Iran-Israel conflict, warning of destabilization across the region.
In Israel, air raid sirens have sounded across several cities, including Tel Aviv, as Iran continues missile launches. The IRGC issued an evacuation warning to residents in Tel Aviv, signaling a potential large-scale strike.
The Israeli military has not publicly confirmed damage or loss of aircraft but remains on high alert. Meanwhile, the United States is reportedly moving military assets closer to the region. The USS Nimitz aircraft carrier is en route to the Middle East, and several tanker planes have been repositioned in Europe, indicating preparations for potential regional involvement.
With tensions continuing to escalate, both diplomatic and military developments are being closely monitored as the situation between Iran and Israel threatens to engulf the broader Middle East.
