Based on the report, the fifth-generation plane encountered the incident mid-mission, prompting an unscheduled touchdown as a precautionary measure.
Chances are you’ll observe our dwell protection of the West Asia conflict right here
Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for US Central Command, confirmed the event, saying the jet was “flying a fight mission over Iran” when it was pressured to make an emergency touchdown.
He added that the plane landed safely and that an investigation into the incident is at present underway.
The report didn’t specify the extent of injury to the plane or whether or not the suspected hearth made direct contact, however the episode underscores the heightened dangers dealing with US army operations amid escalating tensions with Iran.
Is US placing troops in Iran? Trump solutions
The event comes as Donald Trump on Thursday laid out Washington’s stance on the battle, emphasising that the USA would keep away from deploying floor troops at the same time as air operations proceed.
Talking throughout a gathering in Washington with Japanese politician Sanae Takaichi, Trump stated the US was “not placing troops” in Iran, signalling a deliberate effort to keep away from a floor invasion.
Additionally learn: US arms Gulf allies with $16.46B arsenal as Iran battle heats up
He paired that with an upbeat evaluation of the battle’s trajectory, saying, “Thought affect of Iran could be worse, might be over with quickly,” suggesting he expects hostilities to wind down within the close to time period.
Trump additionally made sweeping claims concerning the situation of Iran’s management amid the continuing strikes, stating, “Iran management is gone,” with out offering particulars. He additional pointed to what he described as inner churn in Tehran, including, “They’re searching for new leaders once more.”
The remarks mirror a mixture of restraint and confidence from Washington — ruling out boots on the bottom whereas projecting that sustained army stress has weakened Iran’s management and will carry the battle to a swift conclusion.
