Tehran: Iranian state media on Saturday released unverified images of a US CH-47 Chinook helicopter in Kuwait, reportedly targeted by Iranian forces.

According to Press TV and Mehr News Agency, the helicopter was involved in a rescue operation for the downed US F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jet over Iran. The US administration has not immediately confirmed these claims.

Mehr News Agency reported that an Iranian projectile struck the US helicopter during the operation to recover the F-15E crew. While these reports remain unverified, the incident highlights the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran.

Meanwhile, CNN confirmed that American forces successfully retrieved one crew member from the downed F-15E, who is currently in US custody and receiving medical treatment. The second crew member remains missing, with search and rescue operations ongoing.

The F-15E Strike Eagle, a dual-role aircraft typically operated by a two-person team, was downed on Friday. CNN’s analysis of images released by Iranian media verified that the wreckage matches an F-15, while The Wall Street Journal cited IRIB maps pinpointing search areas. Footage from Khuzestan Province showed low-flying aircraft in formations typical of air-to-air refuelling operations, indicating US forces were conducting standard recovery protocols.

This marks the first time a US aircraft has been downed over Iran during the current conflict, with debris identified as belonging to the 494th Fighter Squadron based at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom.

US President Donald Trump stated that the downing of the F-15E will not impact diplomatic discussions with Iran, saying, “No, not at all. No, it’s war. We’re in a war.” However, when asked about potential US responses if crew members are harmed or captured, Trump declined to comment in detail, stating, “Well, I can’t comment on it because we hope that’s not going to happen.”