Us air refueling plane KC-135 crashes in iraq, iran-backed group claims responsibility

Washington (The Uttam Hindu): A US Air Force aerial refueling aircraft crashed during an Iran-related military operation in western Iraq. The US military has confirmed the incident. Rescue teams have begun search operations in the area, while officials are trying to determine whether there were any casualties.

US Central Command said that a KC-135 fuel tanker aircraft was lost during an incident involving two aircraft as part of Operation “Epic Fury.” The incident occurred while both aircraft were operating on a mission in allied airspace. In a statement, Central Command said it is aware of the loss of the US KC-135 refueling aircraft.

According to the command, two aircraft were involved in the operation. One aircraft crashed in western Iraq, while the other landed safely. The statement said, “The incident occurred during ‘Operation Epic Fury’ in allied airspace, and rescue operations are ongoing. Two aircraft were involved in the incident. One aircraft crashed in western Iraq, while the other landed safely.”

Military officials clarified that the crash was not caused by an attack or gunfire. According to Central Command, the incident was neither the result of enemy fire nor friendly fire. Officials said search and rescue operations are continuing while investigators work to determine the circumstances behind the crash and the condition of the crew members onboard.

Central Command added that more time is needed to gather complete information and provide clear updates to the families of the personnel involved, urging the public to remain patient. The KC-135 Stratotanker is an important aircraft in the US Air Force fleet and is used to refuel bomber and fighter aircraft mid-air during long-distance missions.

Meanwhile, a group of Iran-backed armed factions known as the Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed responsibility for shooting down the US military refueling aircraft in western Iraq. In a statement, the group said it had “shot down the KC-135 aircraft in defense of our country’s sovereignty and airspace.”