The U.S. military conducted a large-scale search and rescue operation in Iran to recover the second crew member of an F-15E fighter jet shot down Friday.
Iran Downs U.S. Aircraft, Launches Search
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard announced Sunday it downed a U.S. aircraft – identified as a drone – involved in searching for the missing pilot in the Isfahan province. The initial F-15E was shot down by Iranian air defenses on Friday, with the first pilot rescued.
Trump Details Rescue Operation, Issues Threat
President Trump stated on Truth Social that the U.S. military launched “one of the most daring rescue operations in history” to retrieve the officer, now reported safe and healthy. He added that dozens of armed aircraft were deployed, with no American casualties.
Trump warned Iran it has 48 hours to reach an agreement regarding the Strait of Hormuz, threatening “hell” if they do not comply. He previously threatened escalation but suggested Tehran was open to diplomatic solutions, an offer Iran rejected Friday.
Iranian Reward for Pilots’ Capture
Iranian state television called on citizens to assist in capturing the pilots, offering a reward of 10 billion tomans (approximately $76,000) for information leading to their capture.
U.S. Military Response and Personnel Involved
The search and rescue operation involved HH-60 and HC-130J aircraft, as well as USAF Pararescue Teams – specialized units trained to rescue aircrews downed behind enemy lines, with origins dating back to WWII and the Vietnam War.
Escalating Tensions and Regional Impact
The U.S. and Israel began bombing Iran on February 28th, prompting retaliatory attacks by Iran against Israel, U.S. bases in the Middle East, and Gulf states. Iran has also imposed a near-total blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, causing global oil and gas prices to surge.