U.S. Military Conducts Search and Rescue Operation in Iran Amid Aircraft Downing Claims
A U.S. military search and rescue operation is reportedly underway in Iran following claims by Tehran that it downed a U.S. fighter aircraft. Unverified videos and photos circulating online suggest the involvement of C-130 transports and MH-60 helicopters in the operation. Tehran initially claimed to have downed a U.S. F-35, but evidence points to an F-15E Strike Eagle from the 494th Fighter Squadron based at RAF Lakenheath, UK. The Pentagon has not confirmed the operation, but U.S. Central Command has denied any aircraft were downed by Iranian forces. Despite this, reports from sources in Washington and Israel suggest an F-15E was indeed downed, with one crew member rescued and another still missing. 
