Fighter Jet Shot Down Over Southern Iran
LIVE COVERAGE: A U.S. fighter jet was shot down today over southern Iraq. President Trump has been briefed on the U.S. fighter jet that was downed over Iran on Friday, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told CBS News. Follow our developing coverage below and click here to get my exclusive breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox.
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A U.S. fighter jet has been shot down over Iran in a dramatic escalation of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, triggering an urgent search-and-rescue operation and raising fears of a broader confrontation.
U.S. officials confirmed Friday that the aircraft—believed to be an F-15E Strike Eagle—was downed by Iranian forces, marking the first known instance of an American fighter jet being shot down inside Iranian territory since the war began nearly five weeks ago.
A massive rescue mission is now underway, involving specialized aircraft and helicopters flying low over hostile territory in an effort to locate and extract the downed airmen.
A local Iranian state television channel reported that at least one U.S. pilot ejected from the jet after it was hit. The broadcast aired a message urging civilians to capture any surviving pilots and turn them over to authorities, ffering what it described as a “precious prize.”
According to sources familiar with the situation, one crew member has already been recovered, while another is believed to be alive somewhere inside Iran, setting up a high-stakes race against time.
Iranian state media quickly seized on the incident, broadcasting images that purportedly show wreckage from the downed jet. In a chilling development, Iranian officials reportedly called on civilians to assist in locating the American crew, even suggesting rewards for those who capture them.
The incident underscores the growing intensity of the conflict, which has already claimed the lives of at least 13 U.S. service members and left hundreds more wounded, according to military estimates.
Military analysts say the downing of a U.S. fighter jet represents a significant escalation, particularly given the advanced capabilities of American aircraft. The F-15E is a dual-role fighter known for its speed, firepower, and ability to carry out deep strike missions, making its loss both symbolic and strategic.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has ramped up rhetoric against Tehran, warning of severe consequences and signaling that additional military action could be on the table.
The fate of the missing crew member remains unclear, and officials have not ruled out the possibility that the individual could be captured or attempting to evade Iranian forces on the ground.
As rescue operations continue, the incident is likely to intensify pressure on U.S. military commanders—and could mark a turning point in a conflict that shows no signs of slowing down.