Iran claims Israeli F-16 jet shot down in latest air defense operation

Iran claims Israeli F-16 jet shot down in a fresh development in rising regional tensions. The claim was made by Iran’s elite force, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, in an official statement.

According to the statement, the incident happened early Friday morning. The military said an Israeli F-16 Fighting Falcon was targeted at 3:45 am local time in central Iran.

Officials stated that the jet was destroyed using advanced air defense systems operated by the IRGC aerospace division. No independent confirmation has yet come from Israel.

Iranian authorities also shared broader details about recent military activity. They claimed that more than 200 aerial targets have been hit in the first three weeks of the conflict. These reportedly include drones, cruise missiles, refueling aircraft, and modern fighter jets.

The statement further said these operations show a clear improvement in Iran’s air surveillance and defense systems. Officials added that the country can now effectively respond to threats not only within its own airspace but across the wider region.

Earlier reports also mentioned possible damage to an F-35 Lightning II during a missile strike, prompting investigations by the United States.

So far, the situation remains tense, with both sides closely monitoring developments.