US military refueling plane crashes in Iraq and rescue is underway
U.S. launches rescue efforts after military refueling plane crashes over Iraq.
Summary
On March 13, 2026, a U.S. military refueling plane crashed in Iraq, with the U.S. Central Command confirming that the incident was not caused by enemy fire.
Rescue operations are actively underway to locate potential survivors from the crash site.
The implications of this incident on operational capacity and resource allocation in the region are yet to be fully assessed.
Updates
Update at 11:48 UTC on 2026-03-13
BBC World reported The US Central Command says rescue efforts continue after a refuelling aircraft went down over western Iraq.
Sources: BBC World
Update at 03:03 UTC on 2026-03-15
Le Monde reported The Pentagon is investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident, which was not attributed to hostile or friendly fire.
Sources: Le Monde
Update at 08:08 UTC on 2026-03-15
BBC World reported The aircraft was on a combat mission as part of ongoing US operations against Iran when it crashed in western Iraq on Thursday.
Sources: BBC World
Update at 11:00 UTC on 2026-03-15
NPR News reported The conflict in the Middle East has escalated, with new strikes announced and the U.S. confirming the loss of six service members.
Sources: NPR News