Iran downs two US jets as Trump says talks will continue

US officials told Reuters that Iran shot down two American military aircraft on Friday, an F-15E fighter jet and an A-10 Warthog.

The F-15E, a two-seat fighter jet, crashed in southwestern Iran after being hit. One crew member was rescued, while US forces continued to search for the second, a weapons systems officer. The A-10 was struck over the Persian Gulf during the operation and managed to reach Kuwaiti airspace before breaking apart. Its pilot ejected and survived.

During the search and rescue mission, two Black Hawk helicopters also came under fire but were able to withdraw from Iranian airspace, according to two US officials.

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday the incidents would not affect ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran. In telephone interviews with US media, he described the situation as part of a state of war and said it did not alter US strategic objectives. He declined to comment on details of the rescue efforts.

Iranian media first reported the downings on Friday, publishing images suggesting the aircraft involved. Just days earlier, Trump had threatened strikes on Iranian infrastructure.

At the same time, diplomatic efforts are under way towards a possible ceasefire in exchange for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Washington is prepared to negotiate if Tehran meets its conditions.

(pir)