Iranian state-affiliated media has claimed that its air defence systems shot down an enemy F-15 fighter jet near Hormuz Island with a surface to air missile, marking a sharp escalation in the ongoing Iran–US–Israel
conflict in the Gulf region.
According to a post by Tehran Times on social media, the aircraft was intercepted over Iran’s southern coast before being brought down near the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz. The report described the incident as a successful engagement by Iranian air defence forces against a hostile intrusion.
#BREAKING
An enemy’s F-15 fighter jet was shot down by Iranian air defense systems near Hormuz Island after being intercepted over the country’s southern coast. pic.twitter.com/jmrFuUQKbd— Tehran Times (@TehranTimes79) March 22, 2026
The claim was accompanied by a short video clip that appeared to show a target being tracked by an infrared tracking system before a bright flash, suggesting a possible interception or strike.
However, there has been no independent verification of the claim so far, and neither the United States nor Israel has officially confirmed the loss of any F-15 aircraft.
The development comes as US President Donald Trump issued a stark 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and threatened to “hit and obliterate” Iran’s power plants, starting with the largest one, if access is not restored.
Also Read: After Trump’s 48-Hour Ultimatum, Iran Says Hormuz Open To All Except ‘Enemies’
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most sensitive maritime chokepoints, through which a significant portion of global oil supply passes. Any military escalation in the area raises immediate concerns over energy security and wider regional stability.
This development comes amid heightened aerial activity across the Gulf, with multiple countries reporting drone interceptions and missile engagements in recent days. Defence analysts warn that such incidents could trigger a broader confrontation if retaliatory actions follow.
