Kamal Ghorui
Iranian state-linked media has claimed that a US helicopter sent to search for a downed American fighter jet was itself struck by a projectile, adding further uncertainty to an already tense situation. The report, carried by Mehr news agency, has not been independently verified, and there has been no immediate response from US officials.The claim follows Iranian state television reports that an American fighter jet went down over southwestern Iran, with at least one crew member ejecting. In response, the United States launched a search and rescue operation, with an Israeli military officer saying Israel was assisting in the mission. Social media footage appeared to show US drones, aircraft and helicopters flying over a mountainous area where the jet was believed to have come down.
If confirmed, it would mark the first known instance of a US aircraft being lost inside Iranian territory during the ongoing conflict, now in its fifth week. It remains unclear whether the jet was shot down or crashed due to a technical fault, and the number of personnel on board has not been confirmed.White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump had been briefed on the situation, but did not provide further details. The Pentagon and US Central Command have not commented.Iranian television escalated its messaging, with an anchor urging residents to report or hand over any “enemy pilot” to authorities, promising a reward. Broadcasts in Kohkilouyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province and nearby regions called on civilians to assist in locating the pilot. Earlier, an on-screen message reportedly urged people to shoot at suspected US personnel, referring to unverified footage circulating online.The claims come amid a wider surge in regional hostilities. Iran has been accused of targeting key infrastructure across the Gulf, including a desalination plant in Kuwait and energy facilities. Air defences were activated in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, while Israel reported incoming missiles.The conflict, which began on February 28, has led to rising casualties across multiple countries and increased global concern, particularly over the Strait of Hormuz, where disruptions have pushed oil prices sharply higher.
