Less than 48 hours after US President Donald Trump claimed the US military had “beaten and completely decimated Iran,” Iran shot down an F-15E fighter jet, triggering a high-risk rescue operation deep inside Iranian territory.
During the mission, Iranian forces also struck two Blackhawk helicopters and an A-10 attack aircraft supporting the effort, reports NBC News.
Despite the escalation, Trump said talks with Iran would remain unaffected, maintaining that diplomatic efforts would continue alongside ongoing military operations.
The latest incidents expose a widening gap between Washington’s narrative and realities on the ground. Trump earlier asserted, “They have no anti-aircraft equipment… Their radar is 100% annihilated. We are unstoppable as a military force.”
However, US officials indicate that roughly half of Iran’s ballistic missile launchers remain operational, alongside thousands of drones and underground stockpiles.
Since Trump’s address, Iran has launched at least 50 ballistic missiles and more than 150 drones targeting US and allied assets. At least 16 US Reaper drones have also been downed since the conflict began.
The White House has continued to claim air superiority, previously saying “US and Israeli joint forces control the skies.”
Nevertheless, military officials acknowledge that full dominance particularly over eastern Iran has yet to be secured.
Iran has denied engaging in direct talks, while Western assessments suggest its leadership remains firmly in control. Despite rising tensions and battlefield setbacks, Washington insists that diplomatic engagement with Tehran will proceed.
