Iran Claims Shootdown of US F-15, Offers Reward for Captured Pilot
A U.S. F-15 fighter jet has been shot down over Iran, marking a major escalation in the ongoing conflict and triggering an urgent search for its crew.
The incident has quickly turned volatile, with Iran claiming responsibility while U.S. officials scramble to recover personnel inside hostile territory.
According to Reuters and CBS News, the aircraft went down during operations over Iran, and a search-and-rescue mission involving helicopters and support aircraft was launched for the two crew members. One has since been rescued, while the second remains missing.
The situation is complicated by conflicting claims. Iranian state media says its air defenses destroyed the jet and has aired images of wreckage, while also calling on civilians to help capture the remaining pilot by offering a reward.
“Iran has asked civilians to help locate the crew and promised a reward,” according to reporting cited by multiple outlets.
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The downing marks the first confirmed loss of a U.S. fighter jet inside Iran during the current war, increasing pressure on U.S. leadership and raising the risk of further escalation between the two countries.
What happens next may depend on whether the second crew member is recovered safely and how the U.S. responds to Iran’s public calls for civilian involvement.
The situation remains fluid as both sides continue operations.
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