U.S. refueling aircraft crashes in Iraq
On March 12, 2026, a U.S. Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq during the military operation Epic Fury. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that all six crew members on board died in the incident. While a second aircraft involved in the event landed safely, CENTCOM initially stated that the crash was not caused by enemy or friendly fire. Conversely, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a coalition of pro-Iranian militant groups, claimed responsibility for the incident, alleging they shot down the aircraft to defend national sovereignty. Iranian state media also reported that the plane was struck by an anti-aircraft missile. Authorities have launched an investigation into the crash, and the identities of the deceased military personnel will be released 24 hours after their next of kin are notified.