US-Iran war update: Donald Trump declares second missing US airman rescued in extensive mission
US President Donald Trump says the rescue marks the first time in ‘military memory’ that two US pilots have been rescued separately in enemy territory.
US President Donald Trump has confirmed the rescue of a missing airman after an extensive military operation.
The risky search-and-rescue mission for the F-15 crew member had entered its second day, with commentators forecasting a grim turn in the war if the man was captured by Iran.
Taking to Truth Social, Mr Trump declared “WE GOT HIM!”
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“My fellow Americans, over the past several hours, the United States Military pulled off one of the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in U.S. History, for one of our incredible Crew Member Officers, who also happens to be a highly respected Colonel, and who I am thrilled to let you know is now SAFE and SOUND,” he wrote on the platform.
He claimed the rescue marks the first time in “military memory” that two US pilots have been rescued, separately, in “deep” enemy territory.
Mr Trump said his military sent dozens of aircraft in its effort to retrieve the unidentified airman, who did sustain injuries but will “be just fine” according to the president.
Part of the recovery operation involved military staff monitoring the airman’s location 24-hours a day.
The US President explained that he had refrained from confirming the rescue of the first pilot in order not to jeopardise the second rescue operation.
“WE WILL NEVER LEAVE AN AMERICAN WARFIGHTER BEHIND,” he wrote on Truth Social.
Mr Trump went on to boast of his military’s prowess, stating that the success of the recovery mission indicates the “overwhelming” superiority of the US air force over Iranian skies.
This comes after the US President issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran. He warned Iranian authorities that “all Hell will rain down on them” unless an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz was reached.
“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 reign (sic) down on them. Glory be to GOD! President DONALD J. TRUMP,” he wrote on Truth Social.
Iran rejected the threat, with General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi stating that if Mr Trump was to go through with his threat the “gates of hell” would open for his military.
The general also described Mr Trump’s announcement as a “helpless, nervous, unbalance and stupid action”.
Hormuz, a crucial shipping route, has been restricted since the beginning of the strikes on February 28. Described as one of the world’s most important “economic chokepoints”, the effect of the blockade is being felt across the world.
