A search operation is intensifying after an American airman went missing when an F-15 fighter jet was shot down over Iran, U.S. officials said.
Rescue Efforts Under Fire
One crew member from the two-seat F-15E has been rescued, but the second remains unaccounted for nearly 48 hours later.
During the rescue mission, additional U.S. aircraft came under attack. A second military plane and two Black Hawk helicopters were hit by Iranian fire, with some crew members injured. Both helicopters returned safely to base.
A separate A-10 Warthog supporting the operation was also struck and crashed in Kuwait. The pilot was rescued, though their condition has not been confirmed.
Wider Conflict Escalates
The incident comes amid growing tensions following large-scale U.S. and Israeli strikes ordered by Donald Trump targeting Iranian military and government sites.
Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks across the region and is attempting to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global النفط route.
Why It Matters
The downing of U.S. aircraft and ongoing rescue efforts highlight the risks of escalation, as military activity continues to expand across the Middle East.
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