Iranian Allegation of F/A-18 Downed Dismissed by U.S. Military
WASHINGTON: The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) on Wednesday rejected Iran’s assertion that it had shot down an American fighter jet, calling the claim “false.”
Iranian state media reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targeted a U.S. F/A-18 aircraft near the southeastern city of Chabahar using advanced air defense systems. CENTCOM swiftly dismissed the reports, emphasizing that no American aircraft had been hit. “No U.S. fighter aircraft has been shot down by Iran,” the command stated, reinforcing its position against what it described as inaccurate claims.
The incident comes amid ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, said Wednesday that the U.S. proposal to end hostilities is under review by Iran’s top authorities. However, he stressed that the back-and-forth with U.S. mediators “does not mean negotiations with the U.S.” In an interview with Iran’s state TV, Araqchi reiterated that Tehran has no intention of holding direct talks with Washington.
Experts suggest the exchange highlights the delicate balance both sides maintain in regional security matters, with the Persian Gulf remaining a hotspot for military and political maneuvering. CENTCOM’s prompt denial underscores U.S. commitment to protecting its forces and preventing misinformation from escalating tensions.
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