The United States has completed a high risk rescue operation inside Iranian territory following the downing of an F 15E fighter jet.
The US president confirmed that the second crew member a colonel was rescued from mountainous terrain after evading capture for nearly two days during a daylight mission involving firefights with Iranian forces.
Officials said the rescued airman sustained injuries but remains in stable condition while the first crew member had been extracted earlier with the announcement delayed for operational security.
The aircraft was shot down during airstrikes near Isfahan a region known for strategic military and nuclear related infrastructure.
Iranian air defense systems are believed to have downed the jet although details remain classified.
Iranian media claimed additional US losses including the alleged downing of a C 130 transport aircraft though this has not been confirmed by Washington.
US officials acknowledged that an A 10 aircraft crashed over Kuwait after taking damage with the pilot ejecting safely.
The US president described the mission as evidence of overwhelming air dominance highlighting the successful recovery of both crew members.
US forces continue intensive airstrikes in the Isfahan area targeting defense related infrastructure while supporting rescue operations.
The development comes amid rising diplomatic tensions with Washington setting a deadline for reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has warned of retaliation citing violations of its sovereignty during the rescue operation.
The conflict now in its thirty seventh day shows no signs of de escalation as global markets remain volatile.
