Washington, United States – Web Desk: A heated discussion during a US congressional hearing has fueled debate over alleged American military losses during the reported conflict with Iran, after claims emerged that dozens of US aircraft were destroyed.
During a Senate committee session, Democratic Congressman Ed Case questioned Pentagon Chief Financial Officer Jay Hurst about reported battlefield losses and military spending linked to the Iran conflict. However, officials reportedly avoided giving direct answers on several points raised during the hearing.
According to statements cited during the session, a report by defense-focused outlet The War Zone
claimed the US Air Force conducted nearly 13,000 sorties during the alleged 39-day conflict.
The report further alleged that multiple US military assets were damaged or destroyed, including MQ-9 Reaper drones, F-15 fighter jets, and A-10 attack aircraft.
Additional claims suggested that an advanced F-35 Lightning II fighter jet was also targeted within Iranian airspace, although the pilot was reportedly rescued safely.
Some aircraft were allegedly destroyed by US forces themselves to prevent sensitive military technology from falling into enemy hands, according to the report.
However, the claims regarding the destruction of 39 aircraft and the reported combat losses have not been independently verified, and US defense officials have not publicly confirmed the figures.
The developments come amid growing international attention on escalating tensions involving Iran, the United States, and regional military operations in the Middle East.
