US F-35 makes emergency landing after Iran combat mission

WASHINGTON — A US F-35 fighter jet conducted an emergency landing at a regional American airbase following a combat mission over Iran, US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed Thursday.

“The aircraft landed safely, and the pilot is in stable condition,” CENTCOM spokesperson US Navy Capt. Tim Hawkins said, adding that the incident is under investigation.

The fifth-generation stealth jet was operating over Iran when it was forced to land, according to officials, with no further details released.

The incident comes amid ongoing US military operations against Iran, which have intensified since late February, as part of a broader regional escalation.