Washington, Apr 04: Iran shot down two US military aircraft in separate incidents on Friday, with one service member rescued and at least one still missing, marking a sharp escalation in the ongoing conflict that began nearly five weeks ago.
This is the first confirmed instance of US aircraft being downed in the war, coming just days after Donald Trump claimed in a national address that the US had “decimated” Iran’s military capabilities and would soon conclude the conflict.
According to officials, one fighter jet was brought down over Iran. One crew member from the aircraft was rescued, while another remains unaccounted for, prompting an active US search-and-rescue operation.
Neither the White House nor the Pentagon released detailed information about the incidents. In a brief interaction with NBC News, Trump declined to comment on the rescue efforts but said the developments would not impact ongoing negotiations, stating, “No, it’s war.”
Separately, Iranian state media reported that a US A-10 attack aircraft crashed in the Persian Gulf after being hit by Iranian defence systems. However, a US official said it was not immediately clear whether the aircraft was shot down or crashed, and details about the crew remain unknown.
The incidents occurred as Iran intensified strikes across the Middle East, targeting Israel and Gulf nations despite claims by the US and Israel that Iran’s military strength has been significantly weakened.
Officials said the status of the second service member remains unclear, with the Pentagon informing lawmakers that confirmation is still awaited. Meanwhile, reports indicated increased aerial activity in regions where at least one pilot was believed to have ejected.
The downing of US aircraft signals a new level of pressure on American forces in the region. Throughout the conflict, Iran has previously made claims of downing enemy aircraft that were not verified, but this marks the first time such an incident has been widely acknowledged.
The escalation comes amid broader regional tensions, including attacks on energy infrastructure and disruptions linked to Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route. These developments have rattled markets, pushed oil prices higher, and raised concerns over global supply chains and economic stability. (Agency)
