Trump Calls F-15 Rescue Operation an “Easter Miracle”
President Trump referred to the successful rescue mission of a weapons officer from an F-15E Strike Eagle, which was shot down by Iran last week, as an “Easter miracle.”
U.S. forces undertook a high-stakes operation to extract the crew from deep within enemy territory in southwestern Iran, close to where the aircraft crashed, and remarkably, there were no casualties.
During an interview with NBC’s Kristen Welker, Trump remarked, “The enemy was big and violent. The rescue workers were incredible—strong, determined, and remarkably calm.” He added, “The Iranians thought they got him, but they didn’t. Remember, we got two, but we couldn’t talk about the first one because it would’ve highlighted the second.”
He emphasized that such a complex rescue had never been executed in such a hostile area. “Usually, it isn’t done because it’s considered impractical. There is no greater army than this. Happy Easter!”
Last week, the U.S. managed to rescue another crew member following the incident. The military maintained communication with both crew members even after they were shot down, with one sustaining injuries but able to walk.
This operation required dozens of fighter jets, helicopters, and hundreds of special operations troops, indicating its complexity.
Trump plans to share more details about the mission at a press conference on Monday. He mentioned on Truth Social that completing both operations without American casualties showcases their air superiority over Iran.
In response, Iran has dismissed claims of a successful mission, likening it to the notorious failed Operation Eagle Claw in 1980, which resulted in the deaths of eight soldiers. The Iranian government reportedly offered a reward for capturing the crew, which they believe was involved in a recent downing of a fighter jet near their borders.
The events surrounding the operations have raised questions about Iran’s capability to engage U.S. jets, especially in light of earlier attacks that began on February 28. Notably, the recent conflict saw a U.S. fighter jet downed for the first time by enemy fire in this war. Another U.S. aircraft, an A-10, was also downed, but the pilot managed to eject and parachute to safety in Kuwaiti airspace.
