Iranian state television has announced a USD 60,000 reward for anyone who can capture alive or dead a US Air Force pilot whose fighter jet was shot down during escalating clashes near the Strait of Hormuz.
According to Iranian authorities, the F‑15 was downed early Friday, with two crew members onboard. US forces managed to rescue one of them in what officials described as an extremely high‑risk operation. The second crew member remains missing, prompting competing search efforts by US Special Forces and Iran‑backed militias.
During the rescue attempt, Iranian police reportedly fired at a US helicopter involved in the mission, striking its tail and causing flames and smoke. Despite the damage, the aircraft was able to land safely.
Iranian forces also claimed responsibility for shooting down a US A‑10 Warthog on Thursday. The aircraft crashed into the Persian Gulf near the Strait of Hormuz. The A‑10, known for its low‑altitude attack capabilities, is typically used for close‑air‑support missions.
The downing of two US aircraft in less than 24 hours marks one of the most serious escalations since the conflict began.
As US teams continue searching for the missing pilot, Iranian militias are reportedly conducting their own operations to locate him a race that has heightened tensions across the region. So far, no trace of the pilot has been found.
Iran’s reward announcement underscores the volatility surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor where recent clashes have already disrupted shipping and raised fears of broader conflict.
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