In a dramatic turn of events, tensions between Iran and Israel have escalated yet again. Iranian state media recently reported that its military has shot down another Israeli F-35 stealth fighter jet near the city of Tabriz. If true, this would be a major blow to Israel’s air dominance and could mark a significant shift in the region’s balance of power.
But is this claim rooted in truth — or just part of an ongoing propaganda war?
📰 What Iran Claims: Another F-35 Downed Near Tabriz
According to Iranian officials:
- The F-35 allegedly violated Iranian airspace.
- Iranian air defense systems successfully tracked and engaged the stealth aircraft.
- The wreckage fell near Tabriz.
- Reports also suggest the pilot was either killed or captured.
This marks the fourth such claim by Iran in just a few days, as it continues to assert dominance over Israeli air operations in the region.
🆚 Israel’s Response: “Completely False”
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have categorically denied the claims. A spokesperson stated:
“These statements by Iran are entirely false. None of our F-35 aircraft have been damaged or shot down.”
So far, no independent verification has been provided to confirm Iran’s claims. Western defense analysts and global news outlets have also remained cautious.
🛩️ The F-35 Fighter Jet: A Difficult Target
The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is among the most advanced and expensive fighter jets in the world. With stealth technology, high agility, and cutting-edge sensors, it’s designed to evade radar and hit deep targets undetected.
If Iran truly has the capability to detect and destroy such a jet, it raises serious questions about:
- The vulnerability of modern stealth aircraft
- Iran’s upgraded air defense systems
- The future of aerial warfare in the Middle East
🎯 Experts Weigh In: Real Hit or Psychological Warfare?
Global defense experts remain skeptical of Iran’s repeated F-35 shootdown claims. Here’s why:
- No confirmed satellite imagery or debris evidence has been released publicly.
- Such an incident would normally prompt an immediate reaction from the U.S. or Israel.
- Some analysts suggest it could be part of an information war meant to demoralize Israeli forces and influence global opinion.
🌍 Why This Matters Globally
These aren’t just isolated military claims — they reflect a deeper geopolitical power struggle. If Iran can indeed shoot down stealth fighters:
- It could encourage other nations to purchase or study Iranian defense systems.
- It would signal a massive leap in Iran’s air defense technology.
- Israel and its allies might be forced to revise their aerial tactics.
📌 Final Verdict: Truth Still Unconfirmed
As of now, Iran and Israel continue to present opposing narratives. Without independent verification, the truth remains unclear. In times of high conflict, propaganda, misinformation, and psychological operations are common.
Until verified evidence is available, such claims should be treated **with caution.