Tampa: US Central Command reported on Sunday that American forces have successfully recovered two service members from Iran after their F-15E fighter jet was shot down during a combat mission on April 2. The recovery operations were conducted through separate search and rescue missions, ensuring the safety of both crew members.

According to Anadolu Agency, US Central Command announced on the social media platform X that US strikes are continuing to dismantle Iran's capacity to extend its power beyond its borders. In a related statement, US President Donald Trump shared with Axios news outlet that the rescue of one crew member faced initial delays due to fears that the officer's radio transmission could be an Iranian trap.

President Trump elaborated that the F-15 was downed by a "lucky" strike from a shoulder-fired missile. Despite having tracked the officer's location, US officials were cautious, suspecting that Iran might be using deceptive signals to lure US forces. Concerns escalated when the downed airman transmitted an unexpected message.

The officer reportedly used the phrase, "Power be to God," which raised suspicions as it seemed like something a Muslim would say, according to Trump. However, US officials later clarified that the exact phrase was "God is good." Those familiar with the officer vouched for his religious nature, which ultimately allowed the rescue mission to proceed without further delay.

Trump disclosed that around 200 special operations soldiers were involved in the mission to recover the downed crew members. Since February 28, the US and Israel have conducted multiple strikes on Iran, leading to over 1,340 fatalities, including the then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran has launched strikes across the region, affecting global markets and aviation sectors.