Iran Flatly Contradicts Trump, Says US Rescue Mission In Isfahan Was Completely Foiled

Iran’s military on Sunday claimed that a United States operation to rescue an airman from a downed fighter jet had been “completely foiled,” contradicting earlier statements by Donald Trump, who asserted that the pilot had been successfully recovered and was “safe and sound.” The conflicting accounts have added to growing tensions and uncertainty surrounding the incident.

According to Iranian officials, the rescue attempt was carried out at an abandoned airport in southern Isfahan under what they described as a deceptive pretext. Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya central command, stated that the mission was thwarted entirely, though he did not confirm whether the missing airman had been captured or remained unaccounted for.

In a televised statement, Zolfaghari claimed that significant US military assets were destroyed during the failed operation. He said that two C-130 military transport aircraft and two Black Hawk helicopters were allegedly taken out, describing the outcome as evidence of Iran’s defensive capabilities. The claims, however, have not been independently verified by US authorities.

Also Read: US Denies Iranian Claim Of F-15 Shootdown During Operation Epic Fury

The Iranian military further accused Trump of making misleading public statements, calling his remarks “empty rhetoric” aimed at diverting attention from the situation on the ground. The stark contrast between the two sides’ narratives has raised questions about the actual status of the airman and the outcome of the operation.

State media in Iran broadcast images purportedly showing charred wreckage scattered across a desert landscape, with smoke rising from the site. Reports also indicated that at least five people were killed during the operation in the country’s southwest, though it remains unclear whether the casualties were civilians or military personnel.

Amid the ongoing developments, Iranian outlets have circulated footage of local residents searching for the missing aviator, some reportedly armed and responding to a bounty announced for information. The incident comes against the backdrop of heightened hostilities between the United States and Iran, with both sides continuing to exchange strong rhetoric as the situation evolves.

Also Read: US Pilot Rescued, Second Crew Member Missing After Fighter Jet Crashes Inside Iran