The United States has successfully rescued an airman who went missing after two warplanes were downed in Iran, according to two U.S. officials. The rescue comes as President Donald Trump and Israel intensify pressure on Iran to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz or risk strikes on its energy infrastructure.
The officials did not disclose further details about the rescued airman late Friday, and the Pentagon has yet to comment on the matter.
The airman was part of a two-person crew aboard an F-15 fighter jet, which Iran claimed it had shot down using its air defense systems. Earlier reports confirmed that the first crew member had already been recovered.
Since the conflict began on February 28, President Trump has delivered mixed signals—alternating between suggesting diplomatic progress and issuing stark warnings, including threats to bomb Iran “back to the Stone Age.”
Trump, who has previously warned of targeting Iran’s power facilities if demands are not met, said the latest deadline for a deal to end the war is rapidly approaching.
“Remember when I gave Iran ten days to MAKE A DEAL or OPEN UP THE HORMUZ STRAIT. Time is running out — 48 hours before all hell will break loose. Glory be to GOD!” he wrote on Truth Social.
The ongoing war has resulted in thousands of deaths, triggered an energy crisis, and poses a serious threat to the global economy. Iran’s near shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz—through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas typically passes—has further escalated concerns worldwide.