US military aircraft crashed in Iraq

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that a US KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq on March 12, 2026. The military stated that rescue operations are currently underway to locate the crew, though there is no immediate information regarding survivors or fatalities. According to official reports, the incident occurred during Operation Epic Fury, and a second aircraft involved in the maneuver managed to land safely. Reports Aljazeera.com.

While the US military explicitly stated that the crash was not caused by hostile or friendly fire, the group known as the Islamic Resistance in Iraq has publicly claimed responsibility for shooting down the tanker. This incident marks another significant challenge for the US military during its ongoing campaign against Iran, which began on February 28. The conflict has faced growing domestic opposition, with recent polls indicating that a majority of American voters disapprove of the military offensive.

This crash follows a series of setbacks for US forces in the region, including the loss of three fighter jets earlier in March due to a friendly fire incident involving Kuwaiti air defenses. As search and rescue efforts continue, the Pentagon remains under pressure to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the loss of the KC-135 and the safety of its personnel.