Iran has claimed a historic first — striking a US F-35 stealth fighter jet during an active combat mission, a move that could reshape the narrative around air dominance in the ongoing conflict. A video circulating online appears to show the moment the jet was hit mid-air, with visible smoke and the aircraft veering off course. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard says the strike happened over central Iranian airspace using advanced air defence systems. The United States has confirmed that an F-35 was forced to make an emergency landing after encountering a missile barrage, though officials have not confirmed a direct hit.

Iran’s leadership transition is under the global spotlight and a newly released video is only adding to the uncertainty. State broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) has published a brief, undated clip showing Mojtaba Khamenei teaching religious students. But with no timestamp, location confirmation, or context, the footage has sparked more questions than answers. The video arrives at a sensitive moment following reports surrounding the death of Ali Khamenei and the presumed rise of Mojtaba to Iran’s highest position of power. Despite the claim, Mojtaba has remained largely absent from public view, fueling speculation over his health, condition, and even whereabouts.