Iranian state-linked media has claimed that a US helicopter sent to search for a downed American fighter jet was itself struck by a projectile, adding further uncertainty to an already tense situation. The report, carried by Mehr news agency, has not been independently verified, and there has been no immediate response from US officials.
The claim follows Iranian state television reports that an American fighter jet went down over southwestern Iran, with at least one crew member ejecting. In response, the United States launched a search and rescue operation, with an Israeli military officer saying Israel was assisting in the mission. Social media footage appeared to show US drones, aircraft and helicopters flying over a mountainous area where the jet was believed to have come down.
