Iran Claims Downing of US F-15 Amidst Escalating Regional Tensions
TEHERAN – The Iranian military has claimed to have intercepted and struck a U.S. F-15 fighter jet near Hormuz Island, further escalating tensions in the region amidst ongoing conflicts involving Iran, Israel and the United States. The claim, reported by Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB on Sunday, March 22, 2026, alleges the jet was hit by a surface-to-air missile from the Iranian army’s air defense system Times Now.
Details of the Alleged Interception
According to the Iranian report, the F-15 was intercepted off the country’s southern coast near the island of Hormuz. Iran’s military stated it is investigating the fate of the fighter jet Times Now. Video footage shared by Fars News Agency purportedly shows the moment the jet was targeted by a missile Times of India.
US Response and Previous Incidents
However, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has refuted Iran’s claim, stating that no U.S. Fighter aircraft have been shot down by Iran. CENTCOM affirmed that U.S. Forces have flown over 8,000 combat flights during Operation Epic Fury India Today. This incident follows a recent event where a U.S. F-35 stealth fighter sustained damage during a combat mission over Iran, requiring an emergency landing at a U.S. Air base in the Middle East Times of India.
Regional Context and Escalating Tensions
These events unfold against a backdrop of rapidly intensifying tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, which began on February 28th. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route, has become a focal point of military posturing, with disruptions affecting commercial shipping and energy supplies worldwide Times Now.
Trump’s Warning and Iran’s Response
U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of potential military action against Iranian infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened, even threatening to “obliterate” major power plants Times Now. In response, Iran has warned that any strike on its energy facilities would be met with attacks on U.S. And Israeli energy and infrastructure assets, including information technology and desalination facilities Times Now.
Recent Missile Exchanges
Recent reports indicate that Iranian missiles have struck towns in southern Israel, resulting in approximately 180 people requiring medical treatment. Israeli military officials report intercepting a high percentage – around 92% – of the more than 400 ballistic missiles fired by Iran MSN. Over 2,700 people have been displaced from their homes due to the attacks MSN.