Trump briefed on US jet downed over Iran
The White House has confirmed that President Donald Trump was briefed on the downing of a US fighter jet over Iran, a significant escalation in the region. As search operations continue for one missing airman, reports indicate a second American aircraft, an A-10, crashed in the Persian Gulf. Despite the incident, Trump stated the downing will not affect ongoing negotiations with Tehran.
President Donald Trump has received official briefings regarding the downing of a US military aircraft over Iranian territory, the White House confirmed on Friday. The incident marks a potential flashpoint in the tense region, though the president signaled that diplomatic channels with Tehran would remain open.
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters that the president is closely monitoring the situation. Iranian state media released footage and images allegedly showing wreckage from the crash site, including what appears to be an ejection seat and fuselage parts, initial assessments suggest the downed plane could be an F-15 fighter jet. The Pentagon and US Central Command have yet to issue an official statement regarding the claims.
Rescue operations amid crossfire
Search and rescue teams are actively looking for the crew of the downed jet. According to CBS News, one crew member has already been rescued by US forces, while efforts continue for a second airman. The situation grew more complex as Iranian media and US officials reported that two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters involved in the search mission were struck by projectiles over Iran. NBC News confirmed that all service members aboard the Blackhawks are safe.
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In a parallel development, The New York Times reported that a second US Air Force combat aircraft, an A-10 attack plane, crashed in the Persian Gulf region around the same time. The pilot of the A-10 managed to eject safely after reaching Kuwaiti airspace, according to US officials.
Trump: ‘It’s war, but talks continue’
Despite the hostile action, President Trump told NBC News that the downing of the fighter jet would not derail ongoing negotiations with Iran. “No, not at all. No, it’s war. We’re in war, Garrett,” Trump stated, while refusing to discuss operational details of the rescue mission.
The incident comes on the heels of Trump’s announcement of “Operation Epic Fury,” which began on Feb. 28. During that address, the president threatened to inflict severe damage on adversaries, vowing to “bring them back to the Stone Age.” Since the operation began, 13 US service members have been killed and over 300 injured. Congressional leaders from both parties, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have expressed support for the troops involved in the ongoing rescue efforts.
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