An F-35 was hit by suspected Iranian fire and landed safely at a Middle East base, challenging U.S. claims of destroyed Iranian defenses.

An F-35 fighter jet made an emergency landing at a U.S. airbase in the Middle East after being struck by suspected Iranian fire during a combat mission over Iran, according to U.S. Central Command. The pilot was stable and the aircraft landed safely. If confirmed, this would be the first known instance of Iran damaging a U.S. fighter jet in the conflict, contradicting recent statements by President Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth that Iran’s military capabilities, including air defenses, had been largely destroyed. The Pentagon is investigating the incident.