Iranian state media has claimed that the country’s air defenses shot down two Israeli F-35 stealth fighter jets and several micro aerial vehicles (MAVs), allegedly capturing an Israeli pilot. The report, which has not been independently verified, comes amid escalating tensions between the two nations following recent Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear facilities.
According to Iranian sources, the incident occurred during an alleged Israeli operation near Iranian airspace. The report stated that Iran’s air defense systems successfully intercepted the advanced fighter jets and drones, though no visual evidence has been provided to support the claim.
However, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) swiftly denied the allegations, with spokesperson Avichay Adraee calling the reports “completely baseless.” The IDF emphasized that all its aircraft and personnel were accounted for, dismissing Iran’s claims as propaganda.
Separately, sources reported that an Israeli drone was downed near Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility, a heavily fortified underground site previously used for uranium enrichment. While Israel has not officially commented on the drone incident, such operations have been part of a long-standing shadow war between the two adversaries.
The conflicting reports highlight the heightened risk of direct confrontation between Israel and Iran, which have engaged in years of proxy conflicts across the Middle East. Recent Israeli strikes on Iranian-linked targets in Syria and suspected sabotage operations against Iran’s nuclear program have further strained relations.
Analysts caution that Iran’s unverified claims could be an attempt to project strength amid domestic and international pressure. Meanwhile, Israel maintains its policy of ambiguity regarding covert operations, neither confirming nor denying involvement in incidents on foreign soil.
The situation remains volatile, with both nations on high alert for potential retaliation. The international community has urged restraint, fearing that any miscalculation could lead to a broader regional conflict.
