US jet downed in Iran as tensions escalate

TEHRAN: (Web Desk) – Tensions escalated further in the ongoing conflict as Iranian and American forces scrambled early Saturday to locate a missing crew member from a downed US fighter jet. Tehran claimed its air defenses shot down an F-15 Eagle over central Iran, while US reports indicated that one of the two crew members had already been rescued, with search efforts continuing for the second.

Iran also reported destroying an A-10 Thunderbolt II over the Gulf, though American media said the pilot was safely recovered. The conflict, which began weeks ago following US-Israeli strikes on Iran, has rapidly expanded across the region, affecting economies and civilians alike.

According to Iranian military officials, the aircraft was intercepted by advanced air defense systems operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Meanwhile, reports emerged that US rescue helicopters, including UH-60 Black Hawk units, came under fire during recovery missions but managed to avoid casualties.

Explosions rock areas near Pakistan’s embassy in Tehran

Fighting has intensified beyond military targets, with strikes now hitting infrastructure across multiple countries. Explosions were reported in Tehran, while Israel launched operations targeting sites in both Iran and Beirut. Civilian areas have also been affected, with casualties reported after strikes damaged residential zones.

The widening conflict has disrupted global energy routes, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for oil shipments. Iranian officials have warned of further attacks on energy infrastructure in response to threats from Donald Trump, who has maintained that military losses would not alter US policy.

Elsewhere, clashes have extended into Lebanon and Syria, with mounting casualties reported. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon confirmed that several peacekeepers were wounded in recent explosions, highlighting the growing risks to international personnel.

Global leaders, including Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, have called for an immediate ceasefire, warning of severe regional and global consequences if the conflict continues to escalate.