One of two U.S. aircrew members shot down over Iran has been successfully rescued by American special operations forces, according to multiple sources cited by Axios reporter Barak Ravid.
“One of two crew members of a U.S. fighter jet that was shot down over Iran was located and rescued by U.S. special forces and the search for the second is ongoing,” Ravid reported Friday, citing an Israeli official and a source with direct knowledge of the situation.
The status of the second crew member remains unclear as U.S. forces continue search-and-rescue operations inside Iranian territory.
Earlier, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed to Ravid that President Donald Trump has been briefed on the incident and is actively monitoring developments.
The downing of the aircraft has heightened tensions, with reports circulating that Iranian officials offered rewards for capturing the American aircrew. Iranian state media figures reportedly encouraged civilians to assist in locating the pilots.
Military analysts say the situation on the ground is extremely dangerous for any surviving crew.
CNN military analyst and retired Air Force Colonel Cedric Leighton noted that the aircraft involved was likely vulnerable to Iran’s air defense systems, which remain capable despite years of sanctions.
“It’s still dangerous for our pilots,” Leighton said, pointing to Iran’s “major capabilities” in anti-aircraft warfare.
Leighton also outlined how U.S. rescue missions typically unfold in hostile territory, highlighting elite units such as those from the 1st Special Operations Wing.
“These are highly capable teams that can go in and try to recover downed aircrew,” he said, noting that such missions are often time-sensitive due to the risk of capture.
Reports that Iranian forces may have already located parts of the aircraft — including a possible ejection seat — suggest the remaining crew member could be nearby, increasing urgency for U.S. forces.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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Wishing even the anti American democrats could bring themselves to pray for the safe return of the second F-15 crew member. I doubt they can get past their hate for Trump and America to pray for their safe return.