According to a report by Anadolu Agency on Tuesday September 01, 2026, Iranian forces recently fired an anti-aircraft missile toward a US F-35 stealth fighter operating over the Strait of Hormuz, according to Axios, in an incident that highlights growing concerns in Washington over Tehran’s efforts to rebuild its damaged military capabilities.

The F-35 was reportedly providing air cover for ships navigating the strategically important waterway when the Iranian missile was launched. According to a US official cited by Axios, the weapon did not come close enough to threaten the aircraft.

The incident is significant because US officials believe Iran is rapidly restoring elements of its air-defence and missile infrastructure following months of American and Israeli strikes that severely damaged parts of the country’s military network.

The reported missile launch has raised concerns that Tehran could regain some of its ability to challenge American aircraft and vessels operating near Iranian territory and the Strait of Hormuz.

US Central Command has already been conducting operations aimed at preventing Iran from rebuilding capabilities that could threaten commercial shipping. Axios reported that US officials are considering limited, periodic strikes designed to disrupt the reconstruction of Iranian radar, air-defence and anti-ship missile systems.

The developments come after renewed fighting around the Strait of Hormuz, where US forces have carried out strikes against Iranian military positions while Tehran has retaliated with missile and drone attacks. Recent clashes have also disrupted commercial shipping through the strategic waterway.

The reported F-35 incident suggests that Iran’s battlefield experience from the recent conflict could complicate future US military operations around its territory, particularly as Tehran works to restore its defensive and missile capabilities.

Related video