Iran Shoots Down U.S. F-15E Fighter Jet, Rescue Efforts Underway

Iran shot down a U.S. F-15E fighter jet over Khuzestan Province, state media confirmed.

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Axios

Iranian forces circulated debris photos and warned civilians to capture enemy pilots, offering a reward.

Bangkok Post

U.S. officials confirmed the jet was downed and launched search-and-rescue operations for the two-person crew.

This marks the first time Iran has successfully downed a U.S. military aircraft since the war began.

Iran's state media initially claimed the jet was an F-35, but analysis confirmed it was an F-15E.

The crew's fate remained unknown with Iran urging citizens to find them and threatening to shoot if seen.

BBC

The downing came just hours after Trump threatened to escalate attacks on Iranian infrastructure.

The incident added tension to a conflict that began with US-Israeli strikes that killed over 200 Iranians including children.

The downing represented a propaganda victory for Iran and raised questions about America's ability to maintain air dominance.

“BBC Verify has confirmed a video showing what appears to be a US plane accompanied by two helicopters flying over southern Iran”

BBC

Trump celebrated destruction of a major bridge while only 27% of Americans approved the strikes.

Congressional Democrats demanded briefings.

The Council on Foreign Relations warned of constitutional concerns under the War Powers Act.