Iran Claims It Shot Down Two Israeli Fighter Jets

Iranian state media have reported that Iranian air defense forces shot down two Israeli fighter jets during a significant Israeli airstrike on June 13, 2025. The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) stated that at least two Israeli aircraft were downed over Iranian territory, although specific details were not provided.

Further reports from Iranian outlets, including Tasnim News Agency, claimed that one of the downed jets was an F-35 stealth fighter and that its female pilot was captured after ejecting. These assertions have not been independently verified and have been denied by Israeli military officials.

The incident occurred amid escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran. On the same day, Israel launched a series of airstrikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear facilities, including sites in Tabriz, Shiraz, and the Natanz Nuclear Facility. Iran responded with missile attacks on Israeli cities, leading to casualties and damage.

As of now, the claims regarding the downed Israeli jets and the captured pilot remain unconfirmed by independent sources. The situation continues to develop, with both nations engaging in military actions and issuing conflicting reports.