US fighter jet shot down, search underway for pilot, reports say

April 3, 2026

TL;DR

Iranian state media reported a U.S. fighter aircraft was shot down over the country.
A search-and-rescue operation is reportedly underway for the pilot.
The well-being of the crew remains unknown.
Several U.S. outlets confirmed the report, citing anonymous U.S. officials.
U.S. Central Command has not publicly commented on the matter.
President Donald Trump has been briefed on the reported incident.
This would be the first U.S. aircraft downed over Iranian territory since the war began over a month ago.
Recent attacks by Iran on U.S. troops and assets in Gulf countries were also mentioned.
The war is predicted to continue for 2-3 more weeks, with threats of escalation.

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