Iran claims strike on US airbase in Saudi Arabia; Says AWACS aircraft destroyed amid escalating conflict

Iran has asserted that one of the key targets was an advanced E-3 AWACS surveillance aircraft, which it claims has been destroyed. Images released by Iranian sources appear to show severe damage to the aircraft, including the destruction of its midsection.

Post Published By: Sujata Biswal
Updated : 29 March 2026, 7:37 PM IST

New Delhi: Tensions in West Asia have intensified further, with Iran claiming it carried out a major strike on a US airbase in Saudi Arabia. According to Iranian media, the attack involved ballistic missiles and drones, allegedly causing significant damage to American military assets.

Iran has asserted that one of the key targets was an advanced E-3 AWACS surveillance aircraft, which it claims has been destroyed. Images released by Iranian sources appear to show severe damage to the aircraft, including the destruction of its midsection. Reports also suggest that aerial refueling tankers at the base were hit.

Casualties and Official Response

Iranian sources claim that at least 10 US soldiers were injured in the strike, with two reportedly in critical condition. However, United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has not yet issued an official statement confirming or denying these claims.

Conflict Expanding Across the Region

The reported strike comes amid a broader and intensifying conflict involving Iran, United States, and Israel. Since late February, multiple fronts have opened, with key military installations such as Prince Sultan Air Base reportedly facing repeated threats.

Iran has also claimed to have downed a US MQ-9 Reaper drone and damaged an F-16 fighter jet, though these claims remain independently unverified.

Rising Regional Involvement

The conflict is increasingly drawing in other actors. Yemen’s Houthi movement has reportedly launched missiles toward Israel, signaling a widening regional confrontation.

Meanwhile, civilians continue to bear the brunt of the violence. Reports of casualties-including a recent deadly strike on a school-underscore the growing humanitarian crisis.

Unverified Claims and Rising Risks

While Iran has released visuals to support its claims, there has been no independent verification so far. The situation remains highly fluid, with both sides engaged in intense military posturing.

If confirmed, such an attack would mark a significant escalation, raising fears that the conflict could spiral into a broader regional war with far-reaching consequences.

Location : 
  • New Delhi

Published : 
  • 29 March 2026, 7:37 PM IST