Several American warplanes crashed in Kuwait on Monday morning, but all crew members survived and are in stable condition, Kuwait’s defence ministry and US military officials confirmed, as part of a dramatic escalation of conflict in the Gulf region.
The incidents occurred amid a wave of Iranian strikes marking the third consecutive day of military operations following the death of Iran’s supreme leader in US-Israeli action. Kuwaiti air defences mistakenly shot down three US F-15 fighter jets while responding to aerial threats in the area, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said, describing it as a friendly-fire mishap.
All six aircrew from the three jets safely ejected and were recovered, with Kuwaiti authorities evacuating them for medical evaluation and treatment. The cause of the incident is under investigation.
Smoke was also seen rising near the US Embassy in Kuwait City, prompting an American security alert urging people to stay away from embassy grounds due to ongoing threats of missile and drone strikes.
The friendly-fire incident underscores the confusion and intensity surrounding the broader military confrontation, in which Iranian missiles and drones have targeted US assets and bases across multiple Gulf states, including Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain.
While the embassy did not confirm direct damage from strikes, Kuwait reported that shrapnel from intercepted drones hit the Mina Al Ahmadi refinery, injuring two workers but not disrupting operations.
The unprecedented level of hostilities has raised international concerns over regional stability and the risk of further escalation involving civilian infrastructure and military deployments throughout the Middle East.
