Tampa, March 12 -- The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Thursday (local time) confirmed the loss of a US Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker refuelling aircraft over Iraq while supporting military operations, according to an official press release.

According to a press release issued by CENTCOM, the incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury.

"Two aircraft were involved in the incident. One of the aircraft went down in western Iraq, while the second aircraft was able to land safely," the release said.

"This was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire," CENTCOM posted on X.

Authorities added that rescue efforts are currently underway.

"More information will be made available as the situation develops. We ask f...