Iran shot down another American military aircraft near the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, marking a sharp escalation in hostilities between the two countries.
US officials confirmed that an A-10 Warthog attack aircraft was brought down during the incident. The pilot managed to eject safely and was later rescued after crossing into Kuwaiti airspace, though search and rescue operations continued in the area.
The strike comes just days after Iran downed an F-15 fighter jet over southwestern Iran, making this the second US aircraft loss within a week.
Responding to the developments, US President Donald Trump described the situation bluntly as “a war” but insisted that the escalation would not disrupt ongoing diplomatic talks with Tehran. “No, not at all. No, it’s war. We’re in a war,” Trump told NBC News when asked whether the incidents would impact negotiations.
While declining to share operational details about rescue efforts, Trump also criticised media coverage of the sensitive mission.
According to US officials, the A-10 pilot ejected before the aircraft crashed, reportedly in Kuwaiti territory. Iranian forces later claimed responsibility for the strike, as reported by regional media outlets.
The escalation extended beyond fixed-wing aircraft. Two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters deployed for rescue operations were also hit during the mission, leaving several service members with minor injuries. Officials confirmed that all personnel involved are safe.
The latest strikes come less than 48 hours after Trump, in a primetime address, declared that Iran had been “completely decimated”—a claim now overshadowed by continued Iranian counterattacks.
The situation around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route, remains tense as military engagements intensify alongside ongoing diplomatic efforts.
