Iran shoots down US jet, claims Black Hawk hit during high-risk rescue mission

Tensions between the United States and Iran intensified on Friday after reports emerged that an American fighter jet was shot down over Iranian territory. According to The New York Times, which cited US officials, a US aircraft was brought down, though details about the exact model remain unclear. The condition and whereabouts of the crew are still not fully known.

US forces quickly launched a search and rescue mission to locate any survivors before they could be captured. Reports from CBS News, citing officials, confirmed that one crew member has been rescued. The aircraft believed to be involved includes the F-15E Strike Eagle, a two-seat jet with both a pilot and a weapons systems officer. However, Iranian media has also claimed that an F-35, a single-seat aircraft, was downed earlier. The US has not yet confirmed which aircraft was hit.

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Iranian claims and counter-claims

Iranian news agencies, including Tasnim and Fars, reported that their air defence systems successfully targeted multiple US assets. Among the claims is the downing of a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter in Iraqi airspace, allegedly part of the rescue operation. The US has not responded to these assertions so far.

Iranian outlets also reported that US aircraft, including helicopters and C-130 Hercules planes, entered the region for rescue efforts but withdrew after facing air defence fire. A video circulating online appears to show low-flying aircraft over southern Iran, though its authenticity has not been independently verified.

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Public appeal sparks concern

In a striking development, Iranian broadcasters urged civilians to report or hand over any “enemy pilot” to authorities, offering rewards. Some broadcasts even called on people to act if they spotted US personnel, marking a rare instance of such direct public involvement in a military situation.

Background to the escalation

The incident follows US military action targeting Iran’s Karaj bridge, which President Donald Trump acknowledged. Iran had earlier warned of retaliation against US interests in the region. As of now, neither the White House nor US Central Command has issued an official statement on the latest developments.