Tehran, 05 April (H.S.):

Iran dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump's assertion of a flawless rescue of its downed F-15E pilot, claiming Iranian forces obliterated several American aircraft during the mission in southern Isfahan province.

Iran International, citing military and security sources, reported that joint operations neutralized enemy aircraft attempting to extract the stranded airman. Tasnim News Agency quoted Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters' spokesman confirming strikes on a C-130 military transport plane and two Black Hawk helicopters.

Revolutionary Guards added that ground forces, police, Basij militia, and other units collaborated to destroy the intruding flying objects, with five casualties reported.

Earlier Sunday, Trump posted on Truth Social: We got him out safe! In the last few hours, our military has successfully executed one of the most daring rescue missions in history. Our incredible crew member—a respected colonel—is now fully safe. He detailed deploying dozens of heavily armed aircraft, noting the officer's injuries but full recovery ahead, and boasted complete air superiority over Iranian skies.

The Friday F-15E Strike Eagle crash over southern Iran left two crew members—a pilot (rescued quickly) and weapons systems officer (missing until today). Both ejected and stayed in contact amid Iran's mobilization of tribesmen and forces.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar