Washington DC / Tehran : A month into the Iran conflict, former U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the American public on April 2, claiming that the United States had destroyed Iran’s air force and that Tehran no longer had the capacity to retaliate.
In his 19-minute speech, Trump also asserted that the U.S. had gained control over Iranian airspace, stating that American aircraft were flying over Tehran without resistance. Similar claims were echoed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. However, recent developments appear to contradict these statements.
In the past 24 hours, two U.S. military aircraft and two Black Hawk helicopters involved in rescue operations reportedly came under Iranian attack. According to Associated Press, this marks the first time in 23 years that U.S. fighter jets have been shot down by enemy fire—the last such incident occurred during the Iraq War.
Since the conflict began on February 28, a total of seven U.S. aircraft have reportedly been destroyed.
Two Jets Downed, Rescue Helicopters Targeted
According to Iranian media, a F-15E Strike Eagle was the first to be shot down while flying over southwestern Iran. A second aircraft, an A-10 Thunderbolt II sent for search and rescue, was also targeted. The A-10 managed to reach Kuwaiti airspace, where the pilot safely ejected, though the aircraft later crashed.
Reports from CBS News indicate that the F-15E had two crew members—one has been rescued, while the other remains missing. Iranian state media claims the missing crew member parachuted into southern Iran.
Additionally, two Black Hawk helicopters deployed for the rescue mission were also attacked. However, all personnel onboard are reported to be safe.
The escalating incidents highlight growing tensions and raise questions over earlier claims of complete U.S. air dominance in Iran.