Iranian Forces Launch Search for Crew of Downed US Fighter Jet

US Fighter Jet Downed Over Iran, Search Operation Underway

Iranian forces have launched a search operation for the crew of a US fighter jet that was downed by an air defense system over southwestern Iran, according to reports from Iranian media outlets. The incident occurred on Friday, marking the first reported loss of a US aircraft in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.

Photos shared by Iranian state media show the wreckage of the jet and what appears to be an ejection seat with an attached parachute. Two US officials have confirmed that a fighter jet was shot down over Iran, prompting a search and rescue operation for survivors.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf has made a social media post commenting on the incident. The governor of Iran’s Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province has also called on civilians to be on the lookout for survivors, with officials offering a reward to whoever captures the crew.

The Pentagon and US Central Command (CENTCOM) have not yet commented on the incident. In previous reports of downed US jets, CENTCOM has denied the claims. Local Iranian television aired footage of what was described as the wreckage of the downed US jet.

US politicians have acknowledged the report and expressed support for the US military. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said he is praying for the safe return of the crew aboard the fighter jet and those working to rescue them in these conditions.

The conflict between Iran and Israel began on February 28, with reports of US losses including three F-15 fighter jets and a refueling aircraft over Kuwait and Iraq.

Source: Al Jazeera