A US military refueling aircraft Jet Crashes in western Iraq, killing four crew members and leaving two others injured. United States Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the incident and said rescue teams are working to support the survivors.
The Jet Crashes happened at around 2 pm Eastern Time, which is 19:00 GMT. The aircraft went down during ongoing military operations in the region. Officials said the accident occurred in what they described as “friendly airspace.”
CENTCOM confirmed that six crew members were onboard the aircraft. Four of them died in the crash. Two others survived and were rescued after emergency teams reached the site.
The identities of the deceased crew members have not yet been released. Military officials said their names will be shared after their families are notified.
Initial reports show the Jet Crashes were not caused by enemy fire or friendly fire. However, investigators are still examining what led to the accident. Military authorities have started a full investigation to determine the exact cause.
Some early information suggests the aircraft may have been flying close to another plane before the crash. Reports indicate that the two aircraft might have been performing nearby maneuvers. The second aircraft involved in the situation landed safely without damage.
However, a group known as the Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed responsibility for the incident. The group said it shot down a KC-135 refueling aircraft. US officials have not confirmed this claim and maintain that the crash was not caused by an attack.
The Jet Crashes add to growing losses for US forces involved in the regional conflict. According to Pentagon officials, seven US service members had already died during the military campaign. Another soldier later died due to a medical emergency in Kuwait.
Officials also reported that about 140 US troops have been injured during the conflict. Eight of them suffered severe injuries.
The latest crash follows earlier incidents since US operations against Iran began on February 28. On March 1, three F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft were accidentally shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses. Fortunately, all six crew members from those aircraft ejected safely.
The ongoing conflict has sparked debate inside the United States. Public opinion polls show that many Americans oppose the military campaign. Critics argue the operation could lead to a wider regional conflict.
Despite criticism, US leaders say the operations are necessary for national security. Officials argue that the campaign aims to prevent further escalation and reduce nuclear threats in the region.
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So far, the conflict has resulted in significant casualties. Reports suggest that 11 US service members, around 1,350 Iranians, and 15 Israelis have died. Additional fatalities have also been reported in several Gulf countries as tensions continue to rise across the region.
