A U.S. F-15 fighter jet was reportedly shot down over Iran, prompting a rescue operation for its two pilots, with one already recovered.
U.S. Fighter Jet Shot Down Over Iran
A U.S. fighter jet was shot down over Iran, according to media reports. The pilots ejected from the aircraft, an F-15.
One member of the crew was rescued by U.S. special forces on Iranian territory, while the search for the second crew member continues. President Donald Trump has been informed of the incident.
Search and Rescue Efforts
The search and rescue operation is focused on the Chuzestan region near the Persian Gulf and the border with Iraq, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Iraqi forces are also involved in the search. Iranian state television announced a reward for information leading to the capture of the American airmen.
Israel Halts Planned Strikes
An Israeli representative told Axios that their country has suspended planned attacks due to the ongoing rescue operation.
Aircraft Identification and Crew Details
U.S. media reports indicate the downed aircraft was an F-15E, a multi-role fighter capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The F-15E has a two-person crew: a pilot and a weapons systems officer.
White House Confirms Incident
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed to CNN that President Trump was informed about the downed U.S. fighter jet over Iran.
Initial Reports and Corrections
Earlier, the Iranian army claimed to have shot down a U.S. F-35 fighter jet. However, experts consulted by the British newspaper The Guardian assessed that photos suggest the aircraft was likely a U.S. Air Force F-15E from the 494th Fighter Squadron based at RAF Lakenheath in the UK.
Previous Incidents
This is the first reported instance of Iranians shooting down an American aircraft since the start of the conflict on February 28th. Three F-15s were previously downed due to accidental fire, according to Axios.