A U.S. fighter jet has been downed over Iran, as confirmed by three U.S. sources to various media outlets, validating reports from Iranian state media. In response, U.S. forces have initiated search and rescue operations, according to these sources. Video appearing on social media, later geolocated by CNN, seems to depict ongoing rescue efforts.
The state-backed Tasnim agency reported that the search for any missing personnel has “so far been unsuccessful.” In a separate report from Fars News, an anchor announced a reward for information leading to the capture of what they referred to as “enemy pilot or pilots.”
Details regarding the exact location of the jet’s downing within Iran remain unclear. Neither the U.S. military nor the White House has issued statements regarding the incident or the condition of the pilots involved.
CNN’s geolocation analysis revealed video footage showing multiple military aircraft flying at low altitudes over Khuzestan Province in central Iran.
This occurrence marks the first instance of a U.S. aircraft being shot down over Iran during the ongoing conflict. Earlier in the war, an incident involving three F-15s was attributed to friendly fire from Kuwaiti air defenses.
