Iranian forces shot down a US F-15 fighter jet over Iranian territory on Friday, according to Iranian state media.
One American pilot was successfully rescued, while the second pilot remains missing, sparking a search operation by Iranian authorities.
The incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing war between the United States and Iran. It is the first confirmed case of an American warplane being shot down since the conflict began in late February.
Iranian media reported that air defence systems successfully targeted the jet. Local residents in the area have been asked to help locate the missing pilot, with some reports suggesting a bounty may be offered for information leading to his capture.
The US military has not yet issued an official statement confirming the loss of the aircraft or the status of its pilots.
This development comes amid intense fighting and growing international concern over the widening conflict. The downing of the F-15 is likely to increase pressure on both sides as the war enters its second month.
