Iran's Revolutionary Guard claims destruction of 11 U.S. aircraft

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed responsibility for destroying 11 American combat aircraft and 17 reconnaissance and operational drones over the past two weeks. Brigadier General Mohebi, a spokesperson for the IRGC, announced the alleged successes, detailing that the destroyed assets included an F-15 fighter jet, a P-8 aircraft, a C-17 transport plane, and eight aerial refueling aircraft, according to the Irna news agency.

These claims come amid heightened regional tensions. Mohammad Bagher, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, stated that the Iranian military will persist with its attacks until "the enemy completely surrenders." He vowed retribution for what he described as "killed children," asserting that "every pillar of smoke seen in the region indicates that a U.S. military, security, or financial center has been hit."

Bagher characterized the ongoing operations as "strikes of rage of the Iranian nation, which rises against the system of domination." The IRGC's announcement and the rhetoric from the security official suggest a deliberate escalation in the confrontation, framing the actions as a response to perceived U.S. aggression and a challenge to its global influence.

The specific details provided by the IRGC regarding the types and number of aircraft allegedly destroyed have not been independently verified. The claims appear to be part of Iran's broader strategy to project military strength and challenge U.S. presence and interests in the region.