'We Are at War': Donald Trump Reacts After F-15E Downed, Iran Claims Another A-10 Hit'

Washington: The ongoing war between Iran and America reached a new and dangerous turn on Friday, when Iran shot down an American F-15E Strike Eagle fighter plane on its soil. Just 48 hours earlier, Trump had told the American public that the US military had "completely destroyed and defeated" Iran. But Iran blew up this claim and destroyed the F-15E and then also attacked two Blackhawk helicopters engaged in the rescue operation.

Did Trump talk about continuing the talks?

In a brief phone interview with NBC News correspondent Garrett Hawke, when Trump was asked whether this incident would affect the ongoing diplomatic talks with Iran, he clearly said, "No, not at all. This is a war. We are at war, Garrett." These words of Trump were his first public reaction after the F-15E incident.

What is A-10 'Warthog' and what is its importance?

The A-10 Thunderbolt II, known as the 'Warthog', is a specialized attack aircraft of the US Air Force. It is specifically designed for ground attack — its main tasks are to destroy tanks and armored vehicles and provide close air support to ground forces. Its robust construction and ability to carry heavy weapons makes it the 'tank buster' of the battlefield.

Had American aircraft been targeted before?

The incident occurred after the US had already lost the F-15E Strike Eagle, a two-seat aircraft. It was shot down in the central region of Iran. It is believed that this is the first American fighter plane shot down by Iran in this war. Both pilots were successful in ejecting safely. 

Was America able to save its pilot?

US officials confirmed that one of the F-15E's two crew members was successfully rescued, while the search for the other continued. The helicopters also came under Iranian fire during the rescue operation, although all crew members were reported safe.

Why is there so much confusion about the second pilot?

Iranian media announced that anyone who captured the American pilot or turned him in to law enforcement would be rewarded for his location. Iranian media also reported that the search for the American pilot was "still ongoing" as of Saturday morning, according to a provincial official. American officials remained silent on these claims.

Could this tension increase further?

Trump warned on social media that the US "has not even begun to destroy what's left" in Iran and that bridges and power plants could be the next targets. On the other hand, the number of deaths in this war across the Middle East has reached around 5,100 and tanker traffic passing through the Strait of Hormuz has come to a complete standstill. Despite this, it is clear from Trump's statement that the doors to negotiations have not been completely closed.