U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) flatly denied Iranian claims on Wednesday that a U.S. fighter jet was downed near Tehran, while simultaneously issuing an urgent directive for civilians to evacuate Iranian port facilities along the Strait of Hormuz.
The military’s response came after an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) leader claimed earlier in the day that a U.S. F-15 had been shot down south of the Iranian capital. In a pointed post on X, CENTCOM labeled the report a “LIE,” asserting that no U.S. fighter aircraft have been lost.
“No U.S. fighter aircraft have been shot down by Iran,” the command stated. “U.S. forces continue to exercise air superiority over vast swaths of Iran. TRUTH.”
As the war of words intensified, CENTCOM shifted focus to the maritime front, warning that the Iranian regime is currently using civilian ports to conduct military operations. According to the release, Iranian naval forces have positioned military vessels and equipment within commercial ports that serve international shipping traffic.
U.S. officials warned that these actions jeopardize the safety of non-combatants and could change the legal status of those facilities under international law.
“Civilian ports used for military purposes lose protected status and become legitimate military targets under international law,” the CENTCOM statement read.
The warning specifically urged Iranian dockworkers, administrative personnel, and commercial vessel crews to avoid all port facilities where Iranian naval forces are operating. Civilians were told to stay clear of military equipment and naval vessels to minimize the risk of being caught in a potential strike.
While the U.S. military maintained it would take “every feasible precaution” to reduce the risk to bystanders, the statement included a sobering disclaimer: “The U.S. military also cannot guarantee civilian safety in or near facilities used by the Iranian regime for military purposes.”
The dual announcements come as tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to escalate, with the U.S. accusing Tehran of using civilian infrastructure to mask threats against international shipping lanes.
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