- An F-15E Strike Eagle jet was shot down by Iranian defenses on Friday, with Iran's Revolutionary Guards claiming responsibility for the strike.
- The pilot safely ejected and was rescued by two military helicopters, but a weapons-system officer remained stranded behind enemy lines in treacherous Iranian mountains.
- US special forces launched a daring rescue mission, employing bombs, covering fire, and MQ-9 Reaper drones to protect the injured airman from approaching Iranian troops.
- The CIA reportedly played a crucial role by locating the airman and conducting a deception campaign to mislead Iranian forces during the operation.
- Trump announced on Sunday that both airmen were safely recovered, stating that no American casualties occurred despite fierce resistance and Iranian claims of downing multiple US aircraft.
IN FULL