US KC-135 Refuelling Aircraft Crashes in Iraq During Operation Epic Fury

New Delhi, March 13: A Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker belonging to the United States Air Force crashed in western Iraq while carrying out an operational mission amid the escalating US–Israel–Iran conflict. Rescue teams were immediately deployed as search operations for the crew began.

Crash Occurred During Operational Mission

The aircraft went down during Operation Epic Fury, a mission linked to ongoing US-Israel military actions in the region. The United States Central Command confirmed the incident in a brief statement, noting that the crash occurred in friendly airspace.

Officials clarified that the accident was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire, suggesting it may have happened during manoeuvres or close-formation flying with another aircraft involved in the mission. The second aircraft reportedly landed safely.

Search and Rescue Operations Underway

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether any crew members survived the crash. Military rescue teams have been sent to the crash site to locate and recover the personnel onboard.

Rising Casualties in the Iran Conflict

The crash comes amid increasing military losses linked to the conflict with Iran. According to Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell, at least seven American servicemen have been killed since the start of operations, while around 140 personnel have been injured, including several seriously wounded.

Earlier Fighter Jet Incident

Earlier in the conflict, three F‑15E Strike Eagle aircraft were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti Air Defense Forces during a chaotic combat situation following Iranian retaliation. All crew members in that incident were rescued safely.

Strategic Tensions Escalate in the Region

Meanwhile, tensions have further intensified after Iran reportedly began placing naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes. The move has raised concerns about disruptions to global energy markets and increased geopolitical instability in the Middle East.

The crash of the US refuelling aircraft and Iran’s latest actions highlight the rapid escalation of the conflict and its potential global implications.

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