HIBAPRESS
The U.S. Central Command, responsible for managing military operations in the Middle East, confirmed on Friday evening the death of 4 individuals following the crash of a KC-135 aircraft over Iraq, in an initial count that may rise.
The U.S. Central Command stated in a statement: "At approximately 2 p.m. on March 12 (Eastern Time), a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq." It added that "the deaths of four out of six crew members have been confirmed, while rescue efforts are still ongoing. The circumstances of the incident are still under investigation; however, the aircraft crash was not caused by enemy fire or friendly fire." It clarified that "the identities of the deceased military service members will be withheld for 24 hours after their families have been notified."
