Social media rumor claims that the US destroyed its own planes in Iran during the rescue mission (Simon Galloway/Getty Images)

TEHRAN, IRAN: Amid the successful rescue of two pilots in Iran following the downing of an American fighter jet, a rumor began circulating on social media platforms claiming that the US forces bombed their own aircraft and personnel, sparking speculations and concerns. Let us analyze the origins of the rumour and fact-check the viral claim.

Claim: United States destroyed its own planes in Iran

Photos showing destroyed US aircraft near Isfahan have sparked online speculation that American forces may have ‘bombed their own’ planes and personnel.

The images show MC‑130J Commando II transport aircraft and MH‑6 Little Bird helicopters in ruins at an improvised landing site.

The speculation grew as Iranian media and social platforms amplified the images, claiming that the US shot their own planes, labelling the mission a failure.

Fact Check: True, the US destroyed the planes to destroy sensitive equipments

Although the claim is true, intentionally destroying stranded aircraft in hostile territory is standard military practice. MC‑130Js and MH‑6 helicopters carry highly sensitive systems, including communication and electronic warfare equipment.

Allowing them to fall into enemy hands could compromise intelligence and future missions.

Officials explained that once all personnel had evacuated, commanders decided to destroy the immobilised aircraft. Rapid extraction took precedence over equipment recovery due to the high-risk environment.

This approach ensures that technology, mission data, and classified modifications are protected from adversaries.

US officials have confirmed that no American personnel were killed during the mission.

All special operators and the rescued airman were successfully evacuated. While aircraft were destroyed, personnel’s safety was prioritised, and no casualties occurred.

US rescue mission in Iran sent a strategic warning

A former Pentagon official suggests that the recent extraction of a downed F-15 co-pilot from Iran was a strategic signal that American forces can infiltrate “anywhere that we so choose” across Iranian territory at will

The operation not only secured the safety of the crew but also served as a high-stakes demonstration of US capability to reach sensitive targets, including leadership and nuclear infrastructure.

Brent Sadler, a retired Navy captain, noted that the mission proved the United States possesses the tactical freedom to operate deep within hostile borders.

During an appearance on ‘Fox & Friends Weekend,’ Sadler explained the broader implications for the regime in Tehran, stating, “This demonstrates to the Iranian leadership that we can get anywhere that we so choose and hold ground as long as we desire to accomplish a mission.”