US military announces loss of refueling aircraft over western Iraq 

The United States has acknowledged that one of its aircraft has crashed in western Iraq, amid the country’s joint military offensive with Israel against Iran.

On Thursday, US Central Command, which oversees operations in the Middle East and parts of Asia, issued a brief statement announcing the aircraft’s crash, as well as rescue efforts.

There was no immediate indication whether there were fatalities or survivors.

“U.S. Central Command is aware of the loss of a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft,” the statement said.

“The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, and rescue efforts are ongoing.”

The statement appeared to suggest that the crash involved two planes, possibly colliding or engaging in close manouevres. The second plane, it said, “landed safely”.

“This was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire,” the statement added.

Before the aircraft crash, the US military had reported that seven service members had died in the ongoing military campaign. Another 140 have been wounded overall, with Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell counting eight that face severe injuries.

This is a breaking news story. More details to come.