Iran air defense forces claim to have shot down two Israeli fighter jets and captured a female pilot following a series of Israeli airstrikes on Tehran and other regions early Friday, according to the semi-official Tasnim news agency.
The jets, reportedly Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II aircraft, were intercepted during what Iranian authorities described as a “blatant act of aggression” by Israel. Iran’s defenses also allegedly neutralized a large number of micro aerial vehicles (MAVs), according to initial reports.
While Israel has not officially confirmed the downing of its aircraft or the capture of personnel, regional analysts warn that the incident could significantly escalate tensions between the two long-standing adversaries.
Tasnim claimed the captured pilot is a woman, though no further details about her identity or condition have been released.
In a strongly worded response, Iranian officials condemned the Israeli strikes and vowed a “crushing retaliation.” The attacks reportedly hit residential areas in Tehran and key strategic locations, resulting in major casualties, including the deaths of senior Iranian military commanders and six nuclear scientists.
Among those reportedly killed are Chief of Staff Major General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri, IRGC Commander Major General Hossein Salami, Central HQ Chief Major General Gholam Ali Rashid, and IRGC Aerospace Force Commander Major General Amir Ali Hajizadeh.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that Israel would face severe consequences, stating: “With this crime, the Zionist regime has paved the way for its own bitter and painful fate.”
The Israeli government has yet to respond officially, but local media report that the country’s military installations have been placed on high alert. The situation has sparked renewed fears of a broader regional conflict involving international actors.
