A U.S. official has confirmed that a second American aircraft went down in the Middle East on Friday amid escalating tensions in the region. The official, speaking anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the situation, did not disclose further operational details.
According to Iranian state media, an A-10 Thunderbolt II—commonly known as the Warthog—was struck by Iranian air defence systems. Reports indicate the aircraft went down near the Strait of Hormuz after being intercepted.
Media reports, including those by CNN and The New York Times, stated that the pilot was safely rescued, while search-and-rescue operations are ongoing for a second airman.
This marks the second aircraft incident involving the United States in the region on the same day. Earlier, a U.S. fighter jet was reportedly shot down in Iran, with at least one crew member ejecting safely. The fate of the second crew member remains unclear.
An Israeli military officer indicated that Israel is assisting in the rescue efforts. Social media footage has also shown drones, aircraft, and helicopters operating over the mountainous area where the incident occurred.
If confirmed, this would mark the first time the United States has lost an aircraft within Iranian territory during the ongoing conflict.
