Israeli F-35 shoots down Iranian fighter jet in first combat encounter

March 4, 2026 • Google News World

Here is a rewritten version of the news article in a neutral newsroom style:

Israel’s F-35 fighter jet has reportedly downed an Iranian fighter jet, marking the first time a crewed aircraft has been shot down by the Israeli military. According to reports, the incident occurred during a nighttime operation.

The Israeli Air Force claimed responsibility for the strike, stating that it targeted Iranian military assets in Isfahan and Shiraz. The IDF released footage showing the F-35 engaging an enemy aircraft, which was reportedly an older model of fighter jet.

Details about the downed aircraft are limited, but sources confirm that it was a crewed plane. The incident has been confirmed by multiple news outlets, including The Jerusalem Post, Fox News, Business Insider, and The Times of Israel.

The Israeli Air Force has not provided further information on the operation, citing national security concerns. However, officials have acknowledged that the F-35’s advanced capabilities played a role in the successful engagement.

The incident marks a significant development in the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, with both countries maintaining a heightened state of alert along their shared border.

Source: Google News World