Iran claimed on Monday that its air defense systems in Tabriz successfully shot down another Israeli F-35 stealth fighter jet — marking the fourth such aircraft downed amid the ongoing military conflict.
Iranian state media quoted officials as confirming the latest interception, asserting that Tehran’s air defense capabilities remain fully operational and prepared to repel further Israeli aggression. The fighter jet was reportedly targeted during an attempted air raid on Iranian military infrastructure.
Previously, Iran has claimed a significant escalation in its ongoing conflict with Israel, announcing on June 14 that its air defense forces had shot down another Israeli F-35 stealth fighter jet over the country's western airspace.
If confirmed, this would mark the first-ever combat downing of a US-made F-35 aircraft.
Also Read: Third Israeli F-35 jet shot down, second pilot captured: Iran
According to a statement by Iran's army, the F-35 was hit by a domestic defense system while flying in Iranian airspace. The pilot reportedly ejected and was later taken into custody by Iranian commandos, foreign media outlets said. Iranian state-run Tasnim News Agency earlier stated on Friday that two Israeli jets, including an F-35, had been downed in the past 24 hours.
However, Iran’s military claimed this latest incident brings the total number of F-35s shot down to three since Israeli forces launched a large-scale offensive on Iran, as reported by Tehran Times. Among the previous cases, one pilot was reportedly killed, while another, said to be a female pilot, was captured.
Iranian officials lash out at Israel
Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi launched a scathing attack on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, labeling him a “war criminal.” Araghchi accused Israel of manipulating global politics, saying, “For the past three decades, Israel has deceived US presidents into fighting its wars.”
"If President Trump is genuine about diplomacy and interested in stopping this war, next steps are consequential," Araqchi said on X.
"Israel must halt its aggression, and absent a total cessation of military aggression against us, our responses will continue. It takes one phone call from Washington to muzzle someone like Netanyahu. That may pave the way for a return to diplomacy."
Turkiye and Russia urge restraint
Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan sharply criticized Israel’s motives, accusing the country of launching attacks with “broad and cunning motives.” Erdogan made the remarks following a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
According to a statement released by the Kremlin, both leaders condemned Israel’s use of force and warned of the potential for devastating regional consequences. “Both sides expressed deep concern over the current escalation in the Iran-Israel conflict, which has already caused a large number of casualties and could have serious long-term consequences for the entire region,” the statement read.
Israel on high alert, sirens sound across cities
As tensions surge, Iranian news agencies reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued an urgent evacuation advisory to residents of Tel Aviv, warning of an imminent large-scale strike. “Tel Aviv residents should leave the city as soon as possible,” the IRGC reportedly stated.
Air raid sirens have been sounding across various Israeli cities as Iran fires more missiles, heightening fears of direct urban conflict. The Israeli military has not yet confirmed the scale or damage caused by these new strikes.
US responds with military movements
Amid the growing crisis, the US military is reportedly repositioning assets in response. A large number of American tanker planes have been moved to Europe, while the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier — previously stationed in Asia — is now heading toward the Middle East, according to international news agencies.
Washington has yet to issue an official statement on the repositioning of its military forces, but analysts believe it reflects preparations for a potential regional spillover or support for Israel’s defense posture.
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