Iranian forces claimed on Friday that they shot down at least two US aircraft — one F-15 jet over Tehran and an A-10 attack aircraft near the Strait of Hormuz.
A spokesperson for the military’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said air defences completely destroyed the F-15.
Later, the Iranian military reported targeting an A-10 that crashed into the Gulf. US media outlets cited sources saying the A-10 pilot was safe after the crash.
However, the fate of one pilot from the downed F-15 remains unknown, with reports indicating one crew member was rescued while the other is still missing.
When asked about the reported losses, President Donald Trump said the downing of the jets would not affect the prospects of talks with Tehran. “No, not at all. No, it’s war. We’re in war,” he said.
Iranian state media released footage showing wreckage of the F-15 and an ejection seat with attached parachute.
Shortly after the incident, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf mocked Trump’s repeated claims of victory.
“After defeating Iran 37 times in a row, this brilliant no-strategy war they started has now been downgraded from ‘regime change’ to ‘Hey! Can anyone find our pilots? Please?’” he wrote on social media.
There was no immediate comment from CENTCOM or the Pentagon on the loss of the aircraft, though both have been quick to respond to earlier Iranian claims.
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has remained silent on the development, while several US politicians have publicly acknowledged the incident and expressed support for the military.
“I’m praying for the safe return of the crew aboard the fighter jet and all of those working to rescue them in these dangerous conditions,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer posted on X.
Since the war began on February 28, the US has lost three F-15 jets in Kuwait in what was later described as friendly fire. A US military refuelling aircraft also crashed over Iraq last month, killing all six crew members.
Also read: Trump hints at ending Iran war soon
Follow us
