A U.S. military refueling aircraft was lost over western Iraq during operations linked to the ongoing regional conflict, killing all six crew members on board, according to U.S. officials.
The aircraft, identified as a KC-135 aerial refueling tanker, was supporting military operations when the incident occurred. U.S. military officials said the aircraft was not brought down by hostile fire, though the exact cause remains under investigation.
The KC-135 is used to extend the range of fighter jets and bombers by refueling them in flight, making it a key part of large-scale air operations. Officials said another aircraft involved in the incident landed safely. The loss of the tanker and its crew highlights the risks of military operations in the region as tensions continue to rise. Authorities have launched an official investigation into the crash.
