A United States military refueling aircraft has crashed in western Iraq while supporting operations connected to the conflict with Iran. The aircraft, a KC-135 Stratotanker operated by the United States Air Force, went down during an aerial mission designed to support combat aircraft in the region. 

Officials confirmed that six crew members were on board the plane at the time of the incident. Early reports indicate that at least four service members were killed, while rescue teams searched for the remaining crew members after the crash. 

According to the United States Central Command, the crash happened in “friendly airspace” and was not caused by hostile or friendly fire. Investigators believe the accident occurred after an incident involving another tanker aircraft that was able to land safely. 

The tanker aircraft was part of ongoing military operations linked to the escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. Military authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash.