According to the reports, Iranian forces have launched a search operation to find the American pilot. Local residents in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province have been offered a valuable reward.
The claim comes more than a month into the ongoing war between the US, Israel, and Iran. So far, neither the US Central Command nor American officials have commented on the report.
This would be the first time Iranian forces claim to have downed a US jet since the conflict began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February.
Search Operation Underway
Iranian television channels showed footage and statements urging people to help in the search. One reporter said: “Dear and honourable people of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province, if you capture the enemy pilot or pilots alive and hand them over to the police and military forces, you will receive a valuable reward and bonus.”
The incident adds to the growing list of escalations in the region. Fresh strikes have been reported on both sides, with attacks hitting energy infrastructure, steel plants, and other targets. The war has also disrupted global oil supplies, pushing fuel prices higher worldwide.
No independent confirmation of the jet being shot down has been available so far. The development comes as former Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif called for a negotiated end to the conflict in exchange for sanctions relief.
